TORONTO

Blue Jays agree to two-year extension with pitcher R.A. Dickey

The Canadian Press Published Sunday, December 16, 2012 3:09PM EST Last Updated Monday, December 17, 2012 6:51PM EST

This Aug. 9, 2012 file photo shows New York Mets' R.A. Dickey pitching during the first inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins at Citi Field in New York. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

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TORONTO - The Toronto Blue Jays have officially acquired Cy Young winner R.A. Dickey, adding the 38-year-old knuckleballer to an improved starting rotation.

The Blue Jays acquired Dickey from the Mets for a package featuring prized young catcher Travis d'Arnaud.

The club then signed the pitcher to a two-year contract extension for US$29 million, with a $12-million option for the 2016 season.

Dickey was already signed for US$5.25 million next year.

The Blue Jays also acquired catcher Josh Thole and minor-league catcher Mike Mickeas, while the Mets received catcher John Buck, minor-league right-hander Noah Syndergaard and minor-league outfielder Wuilmer Beccera.

Dickey was 20-6 with a 2.73 ERA last season, capping his rapid rise from the majors' scrap heap to an ace pitcher. He did it by perfecting a way to throw his floater faster than previous knuckleballers, and tossing it with exceptional control.