Washington - Pitcher Brandon Webb's $8.5 million option was exercised Friday by the Arizona Diamondbacks. The right-hander made just one start last season before being put on the disabled list and had arthroscopic surgery Aug. 4 on his pitching shoulder. Arizona would have had to pay a $2 million buyout if it had declined the option.

"Since Brandon has recovered well from his surgery, we have decided to exercise his option," general manager Josh Byrnes said. "His accomplishments for our organization have been significant. We look forward to him returning to the mound.'

A three-time All-Star, Webb won the 2006 NL Cy Young Award. He is 87-62 with a 3.27 ERA in seven seasons.

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