The Nationals have agreed to a multiyear contract extension with left-hander Gio Gonzalez. The new deal stretches through the 2016 season and allowed the two sides to avoid arbitration. Gonzalez, 26, was traded from the Athletics in December for four minor league prospects. "Gio's ample talents are well known and chronicled," Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said. "Today's extension was about comfort for both parties. From our end, the two option years and team control were imperative to the extended commitment. "Now both Gio and our fans can shift their focus and excitement to his debut in DC knowing that their relationship won't be ending in the short term."