Alek Manoah, Alejandro Kirk re-sign with Toronto Blue Jays, 13 others

TORONTO — Ace pitcher Alek Manoah has had his contract renewed by the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday and 14 other players, including all-star catcher Alejandro Kirk, agreed to new contracts.

The 25-year-old Manoah had a 16-7 record last season with a 2.24 earned-run average and 180 strikeouts over 196 2/3 innings pitched.

Kirk emerged as Toronto’s top catcher last year, hitting .285 with 14 home runs and 63 runs batted in and walks. 

He was named to his first-ever all-star team and earned a Silver Slugger Award as the best hitter at his position in the American League.