RHP Benson wants to remain in Baltimore
BALTIMORE -- Kris Benson intends to talk the Baltimore Orioles' front office during the offseason before making a decision on returning to the team in 2007.
Benson was traded from the New York Mets in January. Because he has at least five years of major league experience and was dealt in the middle of a multiyear pact, he has the right to request a trade during the upcoming offseason.
The right-hander signed a three-year, $22.5 million contract with New York before the 2005 season. The deal also included a $7.5 million club option for 2008.
"As far as my future with the team, right now I'm returning," Benson said Thursday. "As far as any other turn of events, that's just going to have to wait until the offseason."
In other words, there won't be a final decision until Benson and his agent meet with owner Peter Angelos and vice presidents Mike Flanagan and Jim Duquette.
"It's a matter of talking during the offseason and see if we can work something out and make it worth my while, and make it worth their while," Benson said. "It's just a matter of what their plans are with the team. I want to win. That's what it all boils down to."
A little extra money might help, too. Asked if he would like the Orioles to pick up his option for 2008, Benson replied, "I would like to have some type of idea where I'm at with the team. That's definitely a nice thing to go into a conversation with these guys. ... Of course with me being up after the season, that's something we're definitely going to have to broach."
Orioles manager Sam Perlozzo definitely wants Benson back. He's 10-10 with a 4.66 ERA, but he's pitched better than his record shows and he owns two of Baltimore's three complete games.
"I'd like to see him back. He's been probably the biggest hard-luck guy that's thrown well," Perlozzo said. "It's hard not to have a guy back that you think can win 15, 16 games."
Benson missed his last start with strep throat, but he's since recovered and will start Saturday in Detroit.
"Today I feel back to normal, and I'm sure in a couple more days I'll feel even better," he said.
