The Nationals announced today they have picked up the 2009 option on Manny Acta's contract, ensuring the popular manager will remain with the club for at least two more seasons.

"We're very, very pleased with the job he has done here," general manager Jim Bowden said. "We believe he's our long-term solution as manager. We think he should be National League Manager of the Year this year. He's done a tremendous job leading this organization, communicating, motivating. He's well-prepared. He might be one of the youngest in the game, but he's certainly one of the best in the game."

Acta, 38, has molded a young Nationals club that was expected to be among the worst in baseball this season into a surprising success story. After opening the season 9-25, Washington has gone 63-62 entering this weekend's final series at Philadelphia.

Given a two-year, $900,000 contract when he was hired last winter, Acta had two club options included in the deal. The 2009 option, worth $600,000, has now been picked up. The Nationals will decide later whether or not to pick up the 2010 option, which is worth $700,000.

"It's very meaningful to me," Acta said. "It means the confidence they're showing in, and that they're satisfied with the job we've done this year. I'm looking forward to doing the same thing next year and for years to come. I'll stay here as long as they think I'm an asset to the organization."