Maddon could soon get extension

Joe Maddon is in the final year of a deal that pays him $750,000 per season. J. Meric/Getty Images

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) -- Tampa Bay manager Joe Maddon could be close to getting a three-year contract extension through 2012.

In the final year of his contract after leading the team to its first AL pennant last year. Maddon has been discussing a new deal with the team.

Maddon said before Wednesday night's game against Oakland that he couldn't comment because it wasn't the appropriate time. Tampa Bay executive vice president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said pretty much nothing, only that it is team policy "not to comment on rumors or unconfirmed reports."

Tampa Bay first baseman Carlos Pena was thrilled about Maddon's expected deal.

"He built this," Pena said. "Obviously he deserves it. Any positive news is welcome. We feed off positive energy. When this gets done, everyone is going to be very happy for Joe, believe me."

Tampa Bay started Wednesday with a 20-21 record.

Maddon was AL Manager of the Year last season, leading the Rays to their first playoff berth and World Series trip. Tampa Bay had finished in last place in all but one season before going from last to first in the AL East.

The St. Petersburg Times and Tampa Tribune first reported the pending agreement on their Web sites.

Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.