Things were looking good for both Barret Loux and the Diamondbacks when the team selected the pitcher sixth overall in the June draft. Loux, however, subsequently failed a physical and was revealed to have a shoulder tear and elbow problems, forcing the Diamondbacks to back out of their agreement. How should such an unusual situation be handled? This is how. Via a joint press release sent out by Loux and the organization:
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.
The Diamondbacks get their pick back - sort of - and, come September 1st, Loux will be free to negotiate with any team, and as such should still be able to make a fair amount of money. The young pitcher will command a lot of interest, even with his health concerns.