I don't know what to make of the organization's thought process here.
I saw zero chance he'd sign for less than others got (if healthy, clearly), and he didn't. Like, zero chance their bid was any more realistic than their bit for Darvish a few years ago (or any other long term deal other than Donaldson). So, I don't know what the deal is.
Were they wrong about the price (If so, fire them now)?
Were they misleading us (maybe, but I don't know)?
All I know for sure is that they weren't getting him for what they offered, they should have known that. It is possible they misled themselves. As for the owner's comments? I don't think they matter at all. All that matters is actions.