Kevin Kiermaier during a spring training game earlier this month. (Photo by Charlie Kaijo/Tampa Bay Times)

The Tampa Bay Rays announced Monday that they signed outfielder Kevin Kiermaier to a six-year, $53.5 million contract through the 2022 season, with a club option for 2023. The former Bowling Green Hot Rods player’s existing contract was set to expire after the 2020 season.

Kiermaier, a native of Fort Wayne, was drafted by the Rays in the 31st round (No. 941 overall) in 2010. He played in the Midwest League the following year, batting .241 with 4 HR, 39 RBI and 27 SB in 120 games with the Hot Rods. He made his major-league debut in September 2013, and has since established himself as one of baseball’s best defensive centerfielders. He won Gold Glove awards the past two seasons.