We've seen speculation that the Diamondbacks could decline Brandon Webb's $8.5MM club option in hopes of negotiating a more favorable deal, as risky as that sounds. Given the $2MM buyout, it's a net of just $6.5MM for the D'Backs in 2010.
Bob McManaman of the Arizona Republic spoke to Webb today, and the pitcher said he is not interested in a restructured deal. If the Diamondbacks decline the option, Webb will hit the open market. Talking to Scott Bordow of the East Valley Tribune, Webb referenced John Smoltz's $5.5MM guarantee, noting that "he's got a little bit of age on me and my surgery wasn't even close to his."
Webb's preference is still for the D'Backs to pick up the 2010 option. Despite what's been written I'd be surprised if they don't.
