Ben Sheets Attempting a Comeback

Former pitcher Ben Sheets is looking for work. He’s not out to start a new business or become a spokesperson. He’s not looking for post-baseball career work at all, actually. Instead, Sheets is looking for a Major League team to give him another shot.

Yesterday, Tim Dierkes of MLB Trade Rumors reported that Sheets was working out for four different teams in hopes of making a comeback. Dierkes said scouts from the Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, New York Yankees, and Los Angeles Angels all attended a workout out on by the four-time All-Star.

Ben Sheets hasn’t pitched for a Major League team since 2010 when he was 4-9 for Oakland with a 4.53 ERA. He was granted free agency after that year and didn’t want to return to baseball until he was 100%, according to Dierkes. Sheets has an injury history that contributed to his downfall. He suffered a tear to his right elbow in 2009 and again in 2010. After the second tear, Sheets underwent three surgeries including Tommy John surgery.

Each of the four teams who sent scouts to watch Sheets could use pitching help. The Yankees, Phillies, and Angels all have front line starters on the disabled list. If Sheets can return and perform even at a fraction of his peak, he could help a team down the stretch.

Sheets is 90-92 in his career with a 3.79 ERA. He was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1999 and made four All-Star appearances for them. Sheets even finished eighth in Cy Young voting in 2004 after posting a 2.70 ERA.

At 33, Sheets may have something left of his elbow can hold up. He won’t get much of a contract, but a team may be willing to take a risk on him.