Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Philadelphia Phillies officially contact Gary Sheffield; Reds likely in mix

by James Schmehl

It's official - the Phillies are interested in recently released slugger Gary Sheffield.

Philadelphia general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said the Phillies have contacted the agent for Gary Sheffield, according to Phillies beat writer Todd Zolecki.

Despite having not played in the outfield for nearly three years, Sheffield could be the right-handed, power-hitting corner outfielder the Phillies have been looking to score.

Philadelphia released outfielder Geoff Jenkins and his $8 million contract on Tuesday ($6 million less than Sheffield's laughable contract) and would likely scoop up Sheffield for the veteran's minimum of $400,000.

Cincinnati, who has been linked to a potential trade involving outfielder Gary Matthews Jr., might also show interest in Sheffield - though, Reds general manager Walt Jocketty said he hasn't had time to consider the option.

"We haven't talked about it yet," Jocketty told Reds beat writer Jonathan Mayo. "It just happened."

The Phillies seem intrigued and the Reds might be attracted to the veteran slugger, but is Sheffield interested in anything other than being a designated hitter? I'm guessing Sheffield's agent will shop him around the American League, first - and if all else fails, he will work the National League circuit.

Source: mlive.com

Related Posts by Categories



Buy MLB Merchandise at our online MLB Shop DieHardFans.com

0 comments: