Byrnes Extension Seems Unlikely

It seems unlikely that the Diamondbacks will sign 31 year-old outfielder Eric Byrnes to a contract extension.  According to Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic, the team won't even approach Juan Pierre's five-year, $45MM deal.  And Juan Pierre isn't good.

It's just the business reality - the Diamondbacks have way too much outfield talent in their system to give Byrnes anything near what he's worth.  He'd probably have to take something like two years, $20MM to remain in Arizona.  Earlier I said 4/32 might do it but now I'm thinking even that wouldn't work.  I still like him as a possible White Sox next year.

Piecoro also mentioned that Josh Byrnes inquired on Bobby Abreu and Jermaine Dye, but is backing off because Carlos Gonzalez was requested.  Buster Olney proposes Shannon Stewart as a lower-cost alternative.

Comments

[Joeynach]

As a white sox fan I have been talking about Byrnes among the white sox fan sites as well as many a white sox faithful. With our holes in the OF next year I think the sox are definatly going to go after Byrnes, and the sox fans should be happy.

Brynes seems to be coming into his prime if not already there. He is a better version of Aaron Rowand, a hard nosed give it your all type ballplayer. I think Byrnes bat and his ability to either replace Pods at the top of the lineup or Dye in the 5 hole will make him attractive to the sox (who need a LF). I dont think its unreasonable to expect a .300+ BA and 30 Hrs from Brynes hitting behind Thome/Konerko in the cell.

Since Byrnes is 31 years old I find it hard pressed to think hes gonna get a 5 year deal. The sox would probably try for a 3 years deal at 24-27 Mil, but seems more likely both would settle on something like 4/32-36.

Look for the Dodgers, Rangers, A's, White Sox, Padres to all be interested.

[opes]

I will trade you Coco Crisp and Wily Mo for Byrnes.

[spieldogg]

I think there will be a whole lot of teams interested in Byrnes. There are many free agent CF'ers so that leaves a lot of teams in need. Plus Byrnes has enough power to be a good corner as well. If he can stick around in the market till after some of the bigger names get signed he will probably get a real nice contract being how versatile he is and comming off a fine season.