Brandon Webb won’t pitch for the Diamondbacks this season

Brandon Webb hoped to make at least one relief appearance with the Diamondbacks this week, however the team ruled out that possibility today, according to Ed Price of AOL Fanhouse.

Webb, who has spent the entire season rehabbing from shoulder surgery last August, is now slated to pitch in the Instructional League, instead. He’ll make his debut there Wednesday and if all goes well, he’ll pitch again Saturday and next Thursday.

Webb’s agent Jonathan Maurer said that his client is disappointed, but understands the team’s decision.

“While Brandon feels he’s ready to pitch in the majors, it’s important to respect the staff and new general manager Kevin Towers, who believe it’s a better fit to pitch in instructional league. As a potential free agent, Brandon would have liked to pitch once this season for the Diamondbacks but appreciates this opportunity. The Diamondbacks have been good to Brandon and Arizona will be given every opportunity to sign Brandon. But I anticipate a lot of interest.”

It’s disappointing for both sides, actually. Though it happened under former general manager Josh Byrnes, don’t forget that the Diamondbacks picked up the $8.5 million club option on Webb last October.

Don’t expect Webb to get that lucky again. The former 2006 National League Cy Young Award winner will likely have to settle for an incentive-laden contract this winter.