According to ESPN’s Richard Durrett and FOX’s Jon Morosi, the rumored Mike Napoli extension talks are a reality and are likely to result in Napoli’s extended stay with the Rangers. He made $5.8 million this season as the Rangers and he averted arbitration. He is arb eligible for the 2012 season and would be a free agent afterward if no extension is done.

Morosi tweeted Tuesday evening:

@jonmorosi
There’s a very good chance @MikeNapoli25 will have an extension by Opening Day, based on what I’ve been hearing throughout the off-season.

Durrett heard some of the same noise and reported the talks:

Add Mike Napoli to the list of players the Rangers have talked to about a long-term contract. The club has had several conversations with Napoli’s representatives about a multi-year deal, according to a source, though it’s early in the process.

Adam Morris discusses the reports on Lone Star Ball and suggests a possible range for the talks in the $8-10 million.