Rumor: Diamondbacks have interest in Kris Benson
Published by Greg Esposito January 24th, 2009 on AZ Sports Hub - Arizona's Destination for Sports - Blogs - Podcasts - Forums
Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports caught up with former Orioles pitcher Kris Benson recently to talk about how the pitcher’s rehab is going and what his future pitching plans are. During the interview Benson lists a group of potential suitors, one of which is the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Benson, who underwent surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff in March 2007, ending his spring training and his final season with the Orioles, says the Cardinals and Dodgers have expressed the most interest. Dodgers executive Logan White watched him throw off flat ground last week.
Benson also mentioned the Diamondbacks and Rangers among a handful of clubs that could decide to sign him. He said the Indians showed some interest before signing Carl Pavano.
Benson will audition for teams on January 24th in Scottsdale, Arizona at a yet to be determined location.
Benson last pitched in the majors in 2006 posting an 11-12 record with a 4.82 ERA and has been rehabbed his torn rotator cuff last season as a member of the Philadelphia’s Triple-A club.
The Take:It seems like Diamondbacks general manager Josh Byrnes is in search of a low risk high reward starting pitcher and Kris Benson certainly fits the bill. If this is true the deal should be an incentive laden contract that is a win, win for both sides. No word what role Anna Benson will play in the deal but hopefully it’s a big one.
