The Rays and Manager Joe Maddon agreed today on a three-year contract extension. The contract extends through the 2012 season. Financial terms were not disclosed. "Joe's approach and demeanor are exemplary," said Rays Principal Owner Stuart Sternberg. "He is a key member of our organization's leadership, and I expect that together, we will continue to build upon what we have achieved thus far." Rays Executive Vice President for Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman added: "Joe Maddon is a leader on and off the field, and he sets the tone for our clubhouse. Just as we have focused on keeping our on-field talent here long term, it is no different with our on-field leadership. Our continued success will come from stability both on and off the field, and having Joe here long-term is an important part of that stability." "This is where I want to be, with the Rays organization. I can't imagine being anywhere else or working alongside anyone else," Maddon said. "On the personal side, it's very gratifying in terms of what it means for my family and me." Maddon was named 2008 American League Manager of the Year after he guided Tampa Bay to the American League championship in his third season with the team. The Rays' 97-65 record shattered the club record for wins by 27 and represented a 31-game improvement over 2007, the third-greatest increase in A.L. history. Maddon joined Atlanta's Bobby Cox as the only managers in major league history to advance to the postseason the year after finishing with the majors' worst record. Cox steered the Braves to the 1991 National League Pennant after they finished in the cellar in 1990.