One fact I foolishly didn’t consider when predicting Randy Wolf would sign with Arizona is that as an organization they almost never give incentives in contracts. This was a big factor a year ago when the Diamondbacks were making a pitch to Mark Mulder.
However, maybe we shouldn’t rule the D’Backs out on pitchers coming back from injuries. That’s where the bargains are. Today Nick Piecoro reported that Josh Byrnes has checked in with the agents for Bartolo Colon and Matt Clement. Maybe they could offer one year, $10MM to Colon or one year, $6MM to Clement as a way of compensating for the lack of incentives.
Since Arizona doesn’t need added uncertainty and doesn’t offer incentives, Piecoro still expects them to add a more reliable starter via trade. Carlos Gonzalez is the primary chip. Miguel Montero and Albert Callaspo also could be useful pieces. Even Jose Valverde or Orlando Hudson could go in a blockbuster. Ten days ago Piecoro noted that Ervin Santana and Jeremy Bonderman are two possible targets for the D’Backs. The Tigers, looking to add a starter, probably wouldn’t part with Bonderman. I would also expect the Byrnes to inquire on Dan Haren, Joe Blanton, and Erik Bedard.
