I think that we are now out of payroll budget money…whew!

Well, I am exhausted as the offseason moves continue.  One day before Safeco Field opens it’s doors to the adoring fans, Jack Z. spends some money on a right handed bat in Eric Byrnes.  Calling him a bat might be too much, but he was released by the D-Backs two weeks ago and the M’s get a shot at him for $400K.  Oh, don’t feel sorry for him, the D-Backs still owe him $11 Million.

He spent the early part of his career with the A’s and the last 4+ seasons with the D-Backs.  He has only hit 109 career home runs, so his lack of power will still be felt in pitcher friendly Safeco.  He is coming off back-to-back disappointing season due to injuries.  His 2007 season was his career best, especially pleasing to see 50 stolen bases and a .286 batting average.  He is a career .260 hitter.

It appears that he was too good to pass up.  Jack Z. has not made a bad decision yet, that I can think of.  Since Byrnes claims to be healthy for the first time in 2 years, this could be a nice turnaround season for him.  We will see, we do have a place for him in left field.  If he makes the opening day roster, time will tell.  But as far as professional baseball standards are concerned, $400K is nothing.  Of course, someone that inexpensive only means that we could see more moves, even up to the close of Spring training.