CSN Bay Area

After seven big league seasons, Giants reliever Sergio Romo finally had the opportunity to test the free agency market this offseason, and while he had the chance to sign elsewhere for more money and get a chance to be a closer again, the 31-year-old decided to remain stay in San Francisco, signing a two-year, $15 million deal in December.

While working out in Phoenix, Arizona, Romo called in to the Hot Stove show on KNBR on Friday to discuss his decision.

On being offered three-year contracts:
"That third year meant to a lot to me from other places. That's the security that not only I can give myself, but it's a piece of mind. But also for my two son's lives as well."

[RELATED: Giants sign Romo to two-year contract]

On why he ultimately decided to stay with the Giants:
"The deciding factor was 'Am I going to enjoy going to work everyday?' 'Am I going to enjoy smiling like I normally am?'

"I didn't want to start over. I feel like home. I didn't want to go anywhere else. I was hoping I got that third year. But in reality, I'm happy to know that I'm going to a play where I have history, I am appreciated. It's been shown and they show me every day. I didn't have to start over either. A lot of that factored to me. An opportunity was given to me to be somebody by the Orange and Black. I'm very thankful for that. It's okay that I got that two years. Either way, it's a place I know I'm going to be happy to play every day."

On comparing his free agency to Pablo Sandoval's free agency:
"I can sit there and say I relate to Pablo and his situation. Obviously, we were in the same spot being free agents and in a sense and having somewhat of a choice were we wanted to go. For him, our reasons where different. He wanted to go and try, in his words, a new challenge. I can related to that and say I felt that in a sense myself, but for me, no knock on him, but money wasn't at the top of my list. I do understand the security of years, that's what secures you and your family for the rest of your life. I just wanted to be able to enjoy and have a good career and if that happens to end in just one organization, than so be it. I will glady be part of that small percentage that only knows one organization from being drafted to minor leagues to having a big league career all only in one organization. I'm very thankful for this opportunity and everything the Giants have given me."