Sheffield Released By Tigers, Eyes Rays

Tampa native Gary Sheffield would prefer to continue his career with his hometown team after his surprising release by the Detroit Tigers today, but it wouldn't appear the Rays have any room for him.

Sheffield, who is sitting on 499 career home runs, told the Detroit Free Press "it ain't close" to the end of his career.

The Free Press said Sheffield indicated he would give preference to the Rays. That isn't a new development; there were rumblings last year that Sheffield would be thrilled to join the suddenly respectable Rays. But then, as now, it appears an unlikely fit.

Rays manager Joe Maddon said he was aware of Sheffield's statements and was flattered to be held in such high regard by the veteran.

"That's very complimentary, that he would want to come play for us," Maddon said. "I have so much respect for this guy as a baseball player and I've gotten to know him a little bit over the last couple of years, just having abstract conversations with him. I saw him during the offseason, actually, and he's in great shape. He's a very strong person and I like him. Conversationally, I really like him."

Beyond that, Maddon said he had "no idea" what might happen with Sheffield.

The Rays are set at designated hitter after signing Pat Burrell this offseason, and they place the highest value on defensive versatility. While a healthy Sheffield probably would provide more pop than Gabe Kapler, who is set to hold down the right-handed half of the Rays' right-field platoon, he wouldn't be nearly as useful on defense - particularly given that Kapler is able to play center field, as well.

Still, Sheffield could end up being a bargain for whoever ends up signing him. He's in the final season of a two-year, $28 million deal, but by releasing him the Tigers put themselves on the hook to pay all but $400,000 of his 2009 salary. It's just a question of how much the 40-year-old has left after hitting just .225 with 19 homers in 114 games for the Tigers last year. He hit only .178 in spring training.