WEDNESDAY: The D'Backs are likely to take their time on the Webb option decision, says Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic. Piecoro adds:
But for now, the organization seems to be operating under the assumption that Webb will be back in the fold next year, whether it's with the club picking up his $8.5MM option or negotiating some other type of deal.
MONDAY: The Diamondbacks "don't plan to pick up Brandon Webb's $8.5MM club option," according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today (via Twitter). Nightengale says they will instead try to negotiate a one-year deal. Webb hopes to be ready for Spring Training after a recent shoulder cleanup. Doug Haller of the Arizona Republic notes that the D'Backs have until five days after the World Series to decide between Webb's $8.5MM option and the $2MM buyout.
Despite the report, I'd be surprised to see the D'Backs decline the option. After all, it is a one-year deal already, and a net of $6.5MM is quite reasonable for a pitcher of Webb's stature. For the team to try to reduce the guarantee further would be unreasonable, and the D'Backs aren't high on incentive-based contracts. Plus, GM Josh Byrnes had this to say a month ago about the option: "If it's close, he'll probably get the benefit of the doubt."
