Surprise, Ariz. ? Alex Gordon went from a bust to busting the bank.

Gordon, who had a breakout 2011 season after a mediocre first four years in the majors, agreed to a $37.5 million, four-year deal that includes a player option for 2016 to remain with the Kansas City Royals.

The team had been working on a long-term deal with Gordon for several months. It was finally announced Friday, one week before the start of the regular season.

Gordon will make $6 million this season, $9 million next season, $10 million in 2014 and $12.5 million in 2015. The player option is also for $12.5 million.

“This is where I wanted to be,” Gordon said. “I’m thrilled it’s done and over with. I can look to the future now. I’m liking what I see. Our goal was to get it done by the beginning of the year, before the season started. It’s a very exciting day for me.

“Ever since Dayton (Moore, general manager) came into this organization, you kind of saw something change and he turned this organization around. We’ve got a great clubhouse right now. I’m excited to be part of it. I couldn’t be happier to be here for five more years.”

Gordon hit .303 with 23 homers, 45 doubles and 87 RBIs. He also won his first Gold Glove, setting a franchise record with 20 outfield assists. The Tigers’ Miguel Cabrera, the Yankees’ Robinson Cano, and the Red Sox’s Jacoby Ellsbury and Adrian Gonzalez were the only others to hit .300 with 45 doubles and 20 homers last season.

Gordon, 27, was the second player picked in the 2005 draft.

In 2010, Gordon hit .215 in 74 games and spent more time in the minors than he did in the majors. He entered last season with a career .244 batting average. He had hip surgery in 2009 and hit .232 with 22 RBIs in 49 games.