Young’s deal may be last for D-Backs

Chris Young’s five-year, $28 million contract extension is likely to conclude the Diamondbacks’ financial work for the year.

While the D-Backs still have a multitude of younger players, the time does not appear right to work another long-term deal.

“We do believe in the concept, but it is not as simple as that,” D-Backs general manager Josh Byrnes said. “Every situation is different.”

The D-Backs have had intermittent talks with Orlando Hudson’s camp about an extension since late in 2007, but the sides appear so far apart that it would take a major move by one to rekindle meaningful dialog.

Hudson, a three-time Gold Glove winner who will become a free agent after this season, is said to be seeking a yearly salary similar to the $15 million Philadelphia’s Chase Utley will receive in each of the final four years of his seven-year, $85 million dollar extension signed before 2007.

Young, who became the D-Backs’ franchise cornerstone moving forward, will receive a $1 million signing bonus this season.

He will get $1.75 million in 2009, $3.25 million in 2010, $5 million in 2011, $7 million in 2012 and $8.5 million in 2013. The D-Backs have an $11.5 million option for 2014, with a $1.5 million buyout.

“This is just the first step,” Young said. “Hopefully, I can play another 15 years in this game. I’m excited to get this mission going. It’s just the beginning.”

Young entered Tuesday’s game tied for the major league lead with four home runs and tied for the NL lead with eight walks.

“You always try to identify core players. He’s certainly one. He’s an unbelievably talented player, but we wouldn’t have done a contract like this unless we believed in the person,” Byrnes said.

“Getting to know ‘CY’ in the last two years, he’s smart. He’s determined. He’s genuine. He’s a great person to have on a team as we try to win championships here.”

Young is the fifth player the D-Backs have under contract, including options, through 2010.

Eric Byrnes’ three-year extension signed last year runs through 2010, while the D-Backs have options on Brandon Webb, Dan Haren and Chad Tracy in 2010.

Young’s contract is similar to the six-year, $31 million deal signed by Troy Tulowitzki on Jan. 23 which also locks him up through 2013 with an option for 2014.

SHORT HOP

Stephen Drew (quad) singled during a three-run third inning but may be given a day off today, manager Bob Melvin said, which coupled with the D-Backs’ off day Thursday would give him two full days to recover.