Part of the reason you may like the Astros to offer arbitration to Clint Barmes is because he would likely fetch a compensation pick, if he declines and is signed by another team (though why he would decline is totally beyond me). But to quote the minor prophet Lee Corso, "Not so fast, my friend."
McTaggart links to a New York Post report that part of the new CBA could include eliminating compensation picks for Type B free agents.
So, Ed Wade, or Unnamed GM, proceed carefully.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
