Padres looking at Hammel, Niemann
The pitching-poor Padres have inquired about both candiates for the Rays fifth starter's job, Jason Hammel and Jeff Niemann, which could be a reason the Rays are holding off on making a decision.
But reports regarding Niemann in the San Diego Union-Tribune that the Rays have inquired about prospects Simon Castro, Wynn Pelzer, Juedy Valdez and Nick Schmidt, and that the Padres have "deemed the price too high" are not true, the Times has learned.
Both Hammel and Niemann are out of options, and it makes sense for the Rays to explore trade options since they have two other candidates for the remaining spot in the bullpen in Lance Cormier and Jason Isringhausen.
- MARC TOPKIN
Follow Tampa Bay Rays baseball from spring training to the World Series with Marc Topkin, Joe Smith and the St. Petersburg Times sports staff. From Evan Longoria to B.J. Upton and James Shields, we're your source for Tampa Bay Rays scores and schedules.
Rays need to get what they can for either Hammel or Niemann. Losing one of these talented guys for nothing is not an option. Let's hope someone will step up and send us a quality prospect before the Rays get themselves in a jam.
Posted by: 9equals8.com | March 31, 2009 at 09:28 AM
Man, they should trade Hammel and keep Niemann. Price is going to take a starting spot; it's just a matter of time. I think that Niemann could eventually end up being a 7th-8th inning set-up man. He has a huge presence on the mound because he is so tall, and he throws some serious HEAT.
Posted by: Tuck | March 30, 2009 at 06:16 PM
Do it.
Get 2-3 Padre prospects. Antonelli, Durango - go for the speed.
Posted by: TriplePlay | March 30, 2009 at 06:02 PM