Diamondbacks Will Consider Multi-Year Pitching Options

The Arizona Diamondbacks will consider making multi-year offers when they look at this year's pitching free agent class, according to Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic.

Although Piecoro notes that GM Josh Byrnes has previously been reluctant to pursue free agent pitching, he writes that Byrnes could go that route this year. The free agent market looks particularly appealing given the Diamondbacks' relative lack of trade chips. Chris Snyder, who they've already discussed in at least one potential trade, has health questions and an unfavorable contract.

As for who the Diamondbacks might pursue, John Lackey is likely out of the question. Piecoro, however, suggests that a pitcher like Randy Wolf, Joel Pineiro, Jason Marquis, or perhaps a strong bullpen arm could be a possibility.

"Just looking at our payroll, we do have some flexibility going into 2011 and 2012," says Byrnes. "I don't think we'd do it just to do it, but if we felt like it was the right guy, we'd do a multiyear."