Hudson and Braves close to deal

By David O'Brien

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Pitcher Tim Hudson is expected to sign a three-year contract extension with the Braves by early next week, a person familiar with negotiations said.

The Braves and Hudson's representative have made rapid progress in negotiations on a deal, which could be completed as early as Friday. It's believed it will be worth approximately $9 million per season.

The extension for Hudson, 34, would replace a $12 million option the Braves hold on the right-hander's contract for 2010. The Braves have until five days after the World Series to make a decision on that option.

If the option were exercised, Hudson would have the right to refuse it and become a free agent. The Alabama native said he would prefer a contract extension instead of the option and would take a "hometown discount" to stay with the Braves.

On an open market that isn't expected to include many elite pitchers, Hudson could presumably command more than $10 million annually in a multi-year deal.

He went 2-1 with a 3.61 ERA in seven late-season starts after a year-long recovery from elbow surgery. The former 20-game winner has a 148-78 career record.