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.)

Comments

[D-Ray]

Excellent addition. Now we need a catcher.

[JOHN S.]

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.