Percival deal official
The Rays made their two-year deal with reliever Troy Percival official on Friday, guaranteeing the 38-year-old $8-million, with a chance to earn more than another $4-million through incentives based on appearances and games finished.
Percival, who seems likely to supplant Al Reyes as the Rays closer, will be introduced to the media at 3 p.m. at Tropicana Field.
Percival, 12th on the all-time list with 324 saves, was a four-time All-Star while averaging 35 saves for the Angels from 1996-2004. He signed with Detroit and sustained an elbow injury in a July 9, 2005, game at Tropicana Field. But his torn muscle healed and he came back last summer with St. Louis, posting a 1.80 ERA in 40 innings over 34 games of mostly middle relief.
Percival, a favorite of Rays manager Joe Maddon when both were in Anaheim, is also considered a strong clubhouse leader and is expected to have a positive influence on the young pitching staff. He also joins Reyes and Dan Wheeler in giving the Rays three veteran relievers with late-innings experience.
Percival chose the Rays over several teams, reportedly including the Yankees and Brewers.
(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)



Gotta love the latest additions. The addition of Garza may lead to the Rays using one of their young pitchers (Jackson, Talbot, ?) for a catcher or outfielder. Next week could be just as interesting.
Posted by: JOHN S. | November 30, 2007 at 09:04 PM
Excellent addition. Now we need a catcher.
Posted by: D-Ray | November 30, 2007 at 04:31 PM