Marc Topkin writes that after losing out on free agent closer candidate Octavio Dotel, the Devil Rays are now focused on signing either Russ Springer or David Riske.
Springer turned 38 recently, while Riske turned 30. Springer has been tough to hit in recent seasons out of the Astro pen, but has been prone to the gopher ball. Riske’s always been very difficult to hit, despite a significant strikeout rate decline starting in 2005.
It seems likely that if one of these relievers is signed, he would become Tampa Bay’s new closer. Fantasy leaguers, take note.
Topkin also mentions that Rocco Baldelli is drawing interest from the Braves, Orioles, White Sox, and Tigers, but no deal is close.
