D-backs work out Kris Benson

The D-backs worked out free-agent pitcher Kris Benson on Friday morning over at the club’s Minor League complex according to Arizona GM Josh Byrnes.

Benson threw five innings in a simulated game against Minor Leaguers like Marc Krauss, Ryan Wheeler, Taylor Harbin, Andrew Fie and Doug Deeds.

“He here to work out and we certainly afforded him the opportunity,” Byrnes said.

Benson missed the 2007 and 2008 seasons due to arm issues and threw just 22 1/3 innings last year with the Rangers.

Byrnes declined to say how Benson looked or how hard he threw and he said the decision to look at Benson was not because the club thinks Brandon Webb might have to start the year on the disabled list.

“”Every club is always wanting to ensure pitching depth,” Byrnes said. “It’s an evaluation worth doing. We’ll see how we proceed.”