Randy Johnson and the D-Backs appear to have parted ways for what might just be the final time. The Diamondbacks had hoped to retain Johnson after his stellar second-half performance that left him just five wins from 300. Randy himself had hoped to reach a deal, waiting until the eleventh hour to file for free agency.
Below is a statement product on Randy Johnson’s behalf by his agents Barry Meister and Alan Nero:
“At Randy’s request, we traveled to Phoenix on Monday to meet with Josh Byrnes and Jeff Moorad to explore every option for Randy to remain a Diamondback in 2009 and for the remainder of his career.
Randy instructed us not to file for free agency until we made every effort to reach an agreement. The Diamondbacks have a budget based on their club’s financial situation and obviously viewed Randy’s contract in that context. Randy considered every reasonable compromise including offering to take a 50% pay cut, all to remain a Diamondback. However, the economic situation did not lend itself to an agreement.
Consequently, Randy is forced to file for free agency and consider all opportunities to further his career. He hopes to find a team where he can continue to pitch at a high level and contribute to another World Championship.Â
Randy and his family live in Arizona and he will always be a Diamondback at heart. Most of all, Randy will miss the overwhelming support the fans have shown him throughout the years. He wishes the Diamondbacks great success in 2009 and beyond.”
Looks as though the Cubs have some interest in Johnson…