Arizona Re-Signs Ian Kennedy

The Diamondbacks continued their free agent activity by bringing back Ian Kennedy. Kennedy had received offers from the Giants, Dodgers, Rangers, A's, and Mariners but ultimately decided to return to Arizona. The two parties agreed on a deal worth $13 million over two years that included a team option for a third year that could bring the total to $19.5 million.

Can Kennedy regain his 2011 form?

The 29 year old starting pitcher has spent most of his career in Arizona, and initially it looked like the Diamondbacks were going to let him go. The Arizona GMs spoke briefly about their decision to bring back Kennedy shortly after the deal was announced.

"We were going to let Ian go via free agency, but after we completed our review of our pitching staff we decided we needed him back. Our coaches like Jake [Arrieta] and Lucas [Harrell], but we really needed someone who can toss 180-200 innings and Ian is that guy. He has proven to be durable and we need that consistency to make it to the playoffs."

Kennedy projects to be the Diamondbacks #2 starter behind Gio Gonzalez, and the combination of the two could represent 400+ solid innings. Arizona has also announced the release of RP Sam Demel and RP Juan Gutierrez. The bullpen has become crowded recently with the return of Jim Johnson and the signing of Joakim Soria.