Eric Byrnes knows that his chances of remaining with the Diamondbacks beyond this season diminish with each passing day. Byrnes says he remains optimistic about the chances of a deal getting done. But there have been indications in recent days that the two sides are far apart on the parameters of a deal, and it is looking increasingly likely he will dip his toe in free-agent waters. Byrnes has said he will give the Diamondbacks a discount compared to what he can get on the open market. It appears, however, the Diamondbacks are not willing to approach even the low end of comparable outfielder contracts mentioned by Byrnes in recent days - like the five-year, $45 million deal Juan Pierre received from the Dodgers last off-season.