Baez Joins Relief Corps
January 1st, 2010 | by joeb03 |In a move that has been rumored for over a week, the Phillies have reached a two-year contract with ex-Orioles reliever Danys Baez. Terms will be announced after Baez takes a physical in Philadelphia, set to take place sometime this week.
The 32-year old right hander has 141 career saves, most notably his 41 with the Tampa Bay Rays back in 2005. In a non-closing role last year, Baez compiled a 4.02 ERA in 59 games while pitching in the tough AL East. It was his best season since the ‘05 campaign with the Rays, when he sported a 2.86 ERA.
This move likely signals the end for Chan Ho Park, who remains set on becoming a starter. With the addition of Baez, there remains two open spots in the bullpen. Already penciled in are Brad Lidge, J.C. Romero, Ryan Madson, Chad Durbin, and now Baez. Competing for the last two spots are Sergio Escalona, Antonio Bastardo, Kyle Kendrick, and whoever else might step forward come spring training.
With Lidge coming off elbow surgery, it is possible Baez gets thrown into closing duty to start the season. He would be the most experienced guy in the ‘pen, and likely has the trust of Charlie Manuel, who managed Baez with Cleveland from 2001 to 2002.
Ruben Amaro is, for the most part, done tinkering with his roster for the 2010 season. Funds are running low and all needs seem to have been met. The only exception might be to bring back Scott Eyre on a minor-league deal. If he agrees to that, Eyre should win a spot on the opening 25-man roster.
Tags: Antonio Bastardo, Brad Lidge, Chan Ho Park, Charlie Manuel, Danys Baez, J.C. Romero, Philadelphia Phillies, Scott Eyre, Sergio Escalona
