Official Site of the Padres · Nov 4, 2015
Padres exercise Benoit's option, decline Barmes'
9/3/15: Joaquin Benoit retires Justin Turner to end the game and earn the save in the Padres' 10-7 win over the DodgersSAN DIEGO -- The Padres took their first steps toward addressing the 2016 roster Tuesday when they picked up the option on right-handed reliever Joaquin Benoit, while declining the option on veteran shortstop Clint Barmes.
Benoit, who will turn 39 in July, had a $7.5 million option for 2016 with a $1 million buyout. He wasn't as effective as he was in 2014, but he had a 2.34 ERA over 67 appearances, with 36 hits allowed and 63 strikeouts.
Could Benoit essentially be protection in the event the Padres trade closer Craig Kimbrel this winter?