Koch The Closer

Billy Koch used to sneer at the term closer. Not any more. Fast-tracked to the major leagues last season to fill the Blue Jays' void at the position, Koch and his 100-m.p.h. heater have three-and-a-half million reasons -- as in a three-year, $3.5 million contract -- to grow to love his new role. "This is really exciting," Koch, who originally was seeking a $5-million package, said. "I know where I'm going to be and there's a lot of guys (with the Jays) on long-term deals. It's like a family." A rich one. By agreeing to the deal, Koch, 25, became the 12th Blue Jay to be signed to a contract that extends beyond the 2000 season. Koch received a $250,000 signing bonus and will receive $250,000 this year, $650,000 next year and $2.35 million in 2002. He also can earn an additional $100,000 each year if he becomes the Rolaids Fireman of the Year as best closer. He would also receive $75,000 for finishing second and $50,000 for placing third. Last year Koch made a pro-rated portion of the major-league minimum $200,000. A $1.45-million bonus baby in 1996 as the fourth player taken overall in the June draft, Koch blew out his right elbow the next season during his third start in Dunedin and missed the rest of the season. After a successful '98 at both double-A Dunedin and triple-A Syracuse, Koch had just five starts with Syracuse last year before being called up May 5. He earned his first save in his second appearance and never looked back as he went on to log 31 saves in 35 opportunities, an American League record for a rookie. Gord Ash, the Jays president and general manager, said Koch was awarded the deal as much for his character as his performance. "He embodies a lot of what we're trying to do," Ash said. "He's an aggressive, emotional player and we like that. He has the right makeup for the job. Billy's a guy who loves to compete and to win." Ash believes there's no downside to signing Koch. "It's a win-win situation," he said. "The player gets security and the club gets cost certainty. With the right player, it's the smart thing to do." Koch said he loved being a starter but knows that's now is behind him. Many believe his makeup is better suited to the end of the game than its beginning. For his part, Koch doesn't buy into it. "I have a funny looking goatee and no hair. Maybe that is perceived as attitude," Koch said. "When I was a starter I went as hard and as long as I could. Now I do the same thing. I like going out and getting after (hitters) and I like getting (into games) more often." For the next three years, he'll get his wish.
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