The Rays are expected to exercise their $1.8MM option on catcher Jose Molina for 2013, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times (via Twitter). The move effectively costs the Rays $1.5MM as Molina’s buyout was worth $300K.
At the very least, Molina provides Tampa Bay with a capable backup as they work with a limited budget this winter. The backstop hit .223/.286/.355 with eight homers in 274 plate appearances last year but was worked exceptionally well with the club’s pitchers.
The Rays now have just two options remaining in Fernando Rodney and Luke Scott. Rodney is expected to be retained at $2.5MM while Scott will likely get a buyout of $1MM over a $6MM salary.
Good to see a solid veteran on our roster again next yext year. Options out there are slim. Best to platoon him with a youngster or 2 and just hope for the best. I wonder why Rodney is taking so long to extend? Perhaps a Contract Extension is possible? 3 years for 12 million would be a sign of stability.
I think it’s going to cost probably in the 3y/18-20million range
Pretty much figured this would happen. Gimenez, Lobaton and Chirinos are in the mix as well as Stephen Vogt. Catching should be set. Not great but it’s what they have to work with. Vogt may be a darkhouse. Although he’s still looking for his first ML hit he does have some power.
There is nothing more annoying than watching Jose Molina try to run. I don’t understand you how can be a professional athlete and be that out of shape.
At least he tries to run down the line. Watch David Ortiz and even Molina’s own teammate from last year, Upton when they hit ground balls anywhere near an IF that they think will be an out.. They jog down the line.
That is untrue about Upton.
Agreed. After being benched for doggin’ it by Maddon he busts it up the line all the time. He does have a long stride and it looks like he isn’t running fast while he is.