Erik Bedard’s pending $1.5 million base contract with the Seattle Mariners for 2010 is dependent upon a physical the left-hander took today in Seattle.

“I don’t how they determine whether you pass or fail, you’d have to ask the doctor,”  Bedard said. “But I’m optimistic. I’m going to Arizona on Monday, probably, and will start an early spring training.”

Bedard, who will turn 31 next month, was examined by team doctors and the results – including blood work – won’t be on hand for a few days.

Barring the finding of more shoulder problems, Bedard will agree to an incentive-heavy deal to rejoin the Mariners rotation. He believes he’ll be pitching again by May, or June at the latest.

“I don’t know how a physical can be news, but I guess it is,” Bedard said. “If I sign, that’s news, but seeing the doctor?”