PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Phillies have picked up Cliff Lee’s $9 million option for 2010.

The team announced the expected move on Friday, two days after losing the World Series to the New York Yankees. Lee’s contract expires after next season, though general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said the team is open to signing the star left-hander to a long-term deal.
Lee, 31, was acquired from the Cleveland Indians on July 29 for four minor leaguers, and quickly became Philadelphia’s ace. Lee posted a 3.39 ERA in 12 starts for the Phillies, then went 4-0 with a 1.56 mark in five postseason outings, including 2-0 in the World Series.
Published reports have suggested that Lee might command a deal similar to the seven-year, $161 million contract the Yankees gave C.C. Sabathia.