Rays Rumors: Luke Scott and Tampa Bay’s Continued Search for Offense
By Editorial Staff
After it was announced that the Tampa Bay Rays had reached an agreement with free agent slugger Luke Scott, general manager Andrew Friedman told reporters that he still has “a long list” of hitters he’s looking at this offseason. According to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, Friedman and the Rays will continue their search for offense over the coming weeks.
Topkin noted that a future Rays addition doesn’t have to be a first baseman. However, the club has been tied to two of its former players this winter, Carlos Pena and Casey Kotchman. Both offer solid defense at first base but, while Kotchman had a productive 2011 at the plate, Pena is more known for his bat.
While Pena and Kotchman are on Tampa Bay’s radar, another former player is less likely to re-sign with the club. When Friedman was asked if Johnny Damon has played his last game as a Ray, the young GM responded with “in a vacuum the answer is probably yet”.
Scott could be the answer at first, as the 33-year-old played first base, left field and also designated hitter during his time with the Orioles. Following his signing with the Rays, Scott told reporters that he likely won’t be able to play the outfield until May or June because of his shoulder. To get his bat in the lineup the Rays will have to start Scott off as their DH and possibly give him some innings at first.
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You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.