And the hits just keep on coming (or not, in Josh Paul’s case)
By Scott Caruso | February 4th, 2008 | Posted in General, Transactions
I understand that teams just like to stockpile pitching and catching for Spring Training, but it would be nice if that talent was any good. After first opting to bring Mike DiFilece to camp a few weeks back, the Rays announced over the weekend that the even less-talented Josh Paul has been invited to camp. Moreover, he’s actually going to make nearly $700,000 if he somehow makes the team. (TBO)
Dude can’t hit, but on the bright side, he’s the source of great facial hair, so at least he’s got that going for him.
Meanwhile, the Rays also decided to dust off Brian Anderson for another shot in the big leagues. Anderson, you might remember, was the first pick of the Diamondbacks in the 1998 expansion draft. He actually had some moderate success (albeit 5 years ago) during his career, and at 36 years old would be the young whipper-snapper in the Percival-Reyes bullpen. He’s always pretty much been J.P. Howell, and his career .794 OPS against LHB isn’t quite what you’d like from your LOOGY, so I’m not EXACTLY sure where he would fit in if and when he’s healthy enough to play. I’m not very confident in his chances to make the team. But he’s recovering from Tommy John surgery, and those guys throw 900 miles per hour after they recover.
- Juan Gonzalez signed with the Cardinals. Seriously.
- Stacy Long decided to blog about the Super Bowl commericals. In case you forgot what aired during that 7th commercial break, this is your resource.
- For the (by my count) 17,383rd time, the question is asked: Will Evan Longoria be the opening day third baseman? This time, Bill Chastain does the honors again.
- R.J. explains why Joe Maddon kicking and screaming is no good for anyone. I’ve been saying that all along.
- DRG takes a nice look - complete with spiffy animated GIF - at Scott Kazmir, Jamie Moyer, and J.P. Howell.
- Oh yeah. There was some football game this weekend.
