We'd known for a while that the Royals were interested in signing Zack Greinke to an extension, but today's news of a four-year deal is still noteworthy. Finally, the Royals have shown a willingness to keep a young talent rather than trade him away.

Greinke's deal will pay him $38 million, sources told CBSSports.com.

Think of Jermaine Dye, Carlos Beltran and Johnny Damon, among others. The Royals had all three, but couldn't keep any of them.

That's why when Greinke's name surfaced in trade rumors last fall, many people believed the talk. Even after I wrote that Royals general manager Dayton Moore was more likely to sign Greinke long-term than he was to trade him, more rumors popped up at the winter meetings in Las Vegas.

Those who know Moore said he liked Greinke more as the 2008 season went on. Those who know Greinke said the pitcher was determined to remain in Kansas City, and directed his agent to get a deal done.

Greinke even agreed to make appearances on the Royals caravan, something he has resisted in the past.

Now he's signed, and Greinke has given up two potential free-agent years. It's a good sign, and maybe the Royals are finally headed in the right direction.