Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Orvella sent outright; Hot Stove News

Rays reliever Chad Orvella was sent outright to AAA Durham on Monday. This move frees up a space on the Rays 40-man roster, so there is two spots open on the major league roster. Orvella was on the 60-day disabled list the whole season with a shoulder injury. Orvella had a decent rookie year with the Rays in the majors posting a 3.60 ERA with one save and three wins. He then struggled to stay in the majors but had excellent numbers in his minor league career. Look for the Rays or another team to pick him up on a minor league contract.

Report by ESPN's Jayson Stark says the Rays are willing trade back former Ray Delmon Young from the Twins for either Andy Sonnanstine or Edwin Jackson. this trade would be probably be three team deal, which could include Colorado and their third baseman Garret Atkins going to Minnesota. I can't see the Rays trade for Delmon Young, he has a strikeout rate and had a conflict with manager Joe Maddon for not hustling. But Delmon Young does have a lot of upside as well. Originally drafted by the Rays as the number one overall pick in the 2003 MLB, he was projected by some to be one of best hitters in the majors, with power and contact, and he also has one of the strongest outfield arms in the majors. The Rays know what potential he has, he will fill the spot in right field and hits both lefties and righties well. If the Rays aren't willing to spend on a every day rightfielder or DH, then this could be a great deal because Delmon can provide consistent offense and average to above average defense. The Rays will also free up the starter surplus in the majors, by moving Sonny or Jackson.

The Rays officials had lunch yesterday with free agent outfielder Milton Bradley. Bradley had a .436 OBP and a .533 slugging percentage with the Texas Rangers last season. The only question to his playing ability is that how often he can play in the outfield; he only played 20 games in the outfield last season.

In other Major League news at the winter meetings, former Angel's closer Francisco Rodriguez, K-Rod, is close to signing with the New York Mets. The deal may set a new standard in top closer contracts this off-season and years to come.

Thanks to MLBTraderumors for the links and reports.

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