Updated 1-9-07
Is there anyone useful left among the free agent relievers? At this point, it’s a mixed bag. Take a look at the available free agents.
Mike DeJean – He had shoulder surgery in June and barely pitched in 2006. He was useful in 2005 so someone will bring him aboard.
Dustin Hermanson – The White Sox declined their $3.65MM option on him after his back limited him to less than seven innings with the big club this year. The Yankees took a look at his medical records earlier this month.
Dan Kolb – Despite two full seasons of lousy pitching, the Cardinals, Marlins, and Rockies have been on his tail this winter.
Brian Meadows – Another guy who fell into some save opps when no one else was left. He could be decent in the NL for a million bucks.
Arthur Rhodes – To his credit, Rhodes was used in high leverage situations this year. He had a poor season in Philly, which ended with a strained elbow in September. If he can come back healthy he might be worth a look.
Scott Schoeneweis – He’s left-handed, and he did good work in 15 inning stint with the Reds. Maybe the Tigers will bring him aboard.
Rudy Seanez – Seanez had a rough year with the Red Sox and Padres, but his strikeout rate remained strong. He’s approaching 40 but may have a little bit left.
Jorge Sosa – Under 30, won 13 games in 2005? Why hasn’t Jim Hendry thrown $10 million at this man? He doesn’t really have any skills to speak of.
Ron Villone – He didn’t accept the Yankees’ offer of arbitration. The lefty’s stats look ugly but he was excellent in the first half.
A laundry list of projects. I left Kent Mercker and Eddie Guardado off the list, as the Reds plan to invite them to spring training.
