9:13pm: John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer has an update. Jocketty spoke to Sheffield's agent and Baker spoke to Sheffield, both over the phone. The Reds can only offer platoon at-bats in left field. Sheffield will play for the minimum and is talking to two or three other clubs.
12:26pm: FoxSports.com's Ken Rosenthal spoke with Sheffield's agent Thursday, who said he and his client plan to "rush slowly" once Sheff clears waivers at 1pm EST. In other words, they want to strike a deal quickly, but will take their time and explore all avenues.
"We're not challenged by the absolute need to be on an Opening Day roster," said the agent, Rufus Williams. "We're challenged by whether it's the right fit for Gary."
11:05am: Baker and Jocketty are expected to meet face-to-face with Sheffield once he clears waivers. "For now, it's just a conversation," writes MLB.com's Jonathan Mayo.
9:23am: After speaking with Reds manager Dusty Baker, John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer no longer thinks the club will land Sheffield.
“I’m sure he has some offers," Baker said Thursday. "I called Walt (Jocketty) for permission to make the call. I made the call. Walt talked to Mr. Castellini. I talked to Jim Leyland because (Sheffield) hasn’t played outfield in a long time. His teammates liked him. He’s straightforward and says what he wants. That’s what he gets publicity for. But he told me he’s quiet and off to himself on the clubhouse… I don’t know if we’re in the running or not. He wants playing time.”
9:02am: MLB.com's Todd Zolecki believes the Phillies "very much want to sign" Gary Sheffield when he clears waivers at 1pm today. They'll be bidding primarily against the Reds, it appears.
For a refresher on the Sheffield talks, check out the MLBTR archive.
