Yes, it has been tried. You might also want to look into 2.a3, although black can respond with 2...g6 which is quite strong.
sicilian novelty
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Just saw a discussion of this here:
http://www.chess.com/blog/Spochman/no-more-opening-memorizing
probably a little different than your play.
1.e4 c5 2.b4 is the Wing Gambit, and there is theory established for it. It's inferior, but all right for beginners I suppose. When I was first starting to play in tournaments 2.b4 was my response to the Sicilian, but I don't recall why.
2.a3, preparing but not committing to b2-b4, is a better move than 2.b4 itself. If 2..g6, then White can go for a Grand Prix with 3.Nc3 + Bc4, where a3 is not a bad move.
1.e4 .c5
2. b4 c*b4
3. d4
Is white busted? If not, can 2.b4 be considered as novelty from white? Has it been tried at GM level ever, if its not that bad?
I have tried this for last few games of mine and i found out that my opponent are are behind in development after 8 to 9 move, and a little cramped ofcourse.