In a move that demonstrates the compassion of Bud Selig and the ability of his lawyers to protect the league from a law suit, the MLB Commissioner has granted Barret Loux a reprieve.
Instead of having to wait until next year and be re-drafted, Loux is now a free agent after the Diamondbacks passed on signing the sixth overall draft pick due to concerns about a his arm and shoulder health.
All in all, a good resolution. The D-backs get a replacement pick for next season and save some extra money that can be used on free agents (or debt service) and Loux can take his talents to any team willing to bring on his risky arm.
This is from the joint statement released by the team and Loux:
"We have reached an agreement regarding Barret Loux's status that is mutually beneficial to the parties. Today Commissioner Selig has announced that Loux will become a free agent on September 1. As such, he will be free to sign with any Major League Club at that time. In addition, the Arizona Diamondbacks will receive a Supplemental Selection in the 2011 First-Year Player Draft.
The agreement also provides an opportunity for the Commissioner's Office and the Players Association globally to the address the issues that can arise from questions concerning a drafted player's health. Given the private nature of the underlying disagreement here, neither party will be making any further public comments about this situation."