Mike Gonzalez Rumors: Rays Possible Fit for Gonzalez

Mike Gonzalez is expected to sign his next contract soon, according to his agent, Scott Boras.  A week ago Boras told reporters that Gonzalez would likely sign “in the next 10 days”.  Nothing significant has been reported since regarding Gonzalez, but yesterday Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com speculated that the Tampa Bay Rays could be a potential landing spot for the veteran left-hander.  Beyond the Rays, the Red Sox, Reds, Yankees, Cardinals, A’s, White Sox, Indians, Rangers and Angels have all been tied to Gonzalez.

When Boras made his prediction last week, he added that Gonzalez was almost fully recovered from offseason knee surgery.  Boras also said that Gonzalez has been throwing bullpen sessions for interested clubs.

Before Heyman’s Tweet yesterday, the Rays hadn’t been tied to Gonzalez.  There certainly is a need for bullpen assistance in Tampa Bay, as the Rays rank only ahead of the Red Sox in reliever’s ERA.

Kyle Farnsworth, the Rays closer in 2011, has yet to throw a pitch for the club this season due to injury.  Their current closer, Fernando Rodney, has been their best pitcher.  Former starter Wade Davis has been solid as Tampa Bay’s long man.

However, five of the nine pitchers that have thrown in relief for the Rays this season have ERA’s north of 7.00.

Still, Gonzalez isn’t a clear fit for Tampa, as two of the Rays more successful relievers are southpaws; J.P. Howell and Jake McGee.  Though McGee’s been hit harder by lefties than righties so far this season, both pitchers have solid career numbers versus left-handed hitters.

Teams may be eyeing Gonzalez for his late-game experience, but the Rays will have a pair of experienced late-inning arms once Farnsworth returns from injury.

A Gonzalez signing could certainly be in the Rays future, but it doesn’t appear that the veteran left-hander is a clear fit with Tampa Bay.

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