Bedard Signs for 2007

According to the Baltimore Sun, the Orioles have avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year deal with Erik Bedard just this morning.

From the Sun: Bedard was asking for $4 million, while the Orioles were offering $2.7 million. The Orioles exceeded the midpoint to get the deal done, according to one club source, and will pay the pitcher approximately $3.4 million. "I am happy," Bedard said. "The biggest part is not to go to a court hearing and hear you [stink]. I am just glad it's over with."

Woohoo. This is good news for the Orioles and even moreso for Bedard. He can finally focus on Opening Day and the task at hand – the 2007 baseball season.

If he has a standout 2007, look for a contract extension…