Tampa Bay Rays take bullpen strategy too far
By David Hill
The Tampa Bay Rays have been able to find relievers virtually anywhere. Veteran arms are plucked from the scrap heap and suddenly re-establish themselves. Non-descript minor leaguers become weapons. It is almost as though they could sign someone out of a Wal-Mart parking lot and find a productive reliever.
It seems as though they are putting that theory to the test. According to their latest depth chart at ESPN.com, the Rays’ primary reliever is Brandon Berger, a 46 year old former outfielder who last appeared in the majors in 2004 with the Royals.
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Berger does have some experience pitching – back in 1998. That season, he appeared on the mound twice for the High-A Wilmington Blue Rocks. He allowed three runs on three hits and four walks in his two innings, failing to record a strikeout.
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On the positive side for the Rays, his arm would be well rested. It has been 23 years since he has been on the mound, and 16 years since he was last on the diamond as he retired after spending 2005 in Triple-A with the Cardinals. Maybe the Rays are hoping there is a little something left in the bat as well and Berger can be an unexpected two way threat.
It is difficult to imagine who ESPN had meant to put in that spot. Brooks Raley at least has a first name that begins with ‘B’. The same can be said with Jalen Beeks‘ last name. The only thing that is really clear is that former Royals outfielder Brandon Berger is not a part of the Rays’ bullpen plans. Or is he?
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According to ESPN.com, the Tampa Bay Rays are using former Royals’ outfielder Brandon Berger as their primary reliever. They really do find arms everywhere.