The Rays added the extra bat they were looking for tonight when they signed Jeff Keppinger to a one-year deal (via Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com).
The agreement is a major league contract, so it would seem that Elliot Johnson’s chances of making the team just took a big hit. Keppinger can play both middle infield spots as well as both corner outfield spots.
In his career, Keppinger is a .324 hitter with a .371 OBP against left-handed pitchers. So there is a good chance Keppinger will be the starting second baseman or shortstop on days a lefty is on the mound.
10 Comments
I like it. He will definitely bolster our line up vs LH which we’ve obviously had trouble with since 08. We were already set against RH. And a little less Brignac/Johnson will be just fine with me. If they can sign one more vet to back up SS/2B/3B that can hit against RH then I’m all for that as well
Um . . . one more reason to move the Rays from FL??
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/florida-law-turn-ballparks-homeless-shelters-151458504.html
Great move by the Rays! He should be a great fit; definitely an upgrade offensively!
Like it too. Hope Guyer has a hot spring and takes Fuld’s spot. Still would like to see a package of Nieman/Davis, Brignac and another minor league pitcher sent to a team that has a AA top 50 catcher.
Team is looking really nice. It’s not do or die but we can use another catcher and hopefully one will be involved in our SP trade. Trading a SP is the only move I see left to make but of course, never know what Friedman has up his sleeve. All the additions have been quiet until they are done deals.
Looks like Keppinger will start at 2nd base on opening day then. Sabathia is a lefty so it makes sense kepp will be at 2nd with Zobrist in right.
Bench (versus righties)?:
Other catcher
Keppinger
Fuld / Guyer
S. Rod ( I guess assuming Briggy’s on the team)
Canzler / Fuld
I love Fuld as a 4th outfielder and bench guy – but if Guyer has a great Spring… My guess is that Guyer’s in Durham to start the season, Fuld gives speed, defense, and he did a good job pinch-hitting last year – perfect guy to have on the bench. The more I look at it, the more Ilike the idea of Canzler against lefties and getting 30 to 50 starts at first.
I heard Keppinger can play 1st…perfect aga. lefties, Pena to pinch hitter for late innings relief pitcher(right hander)
This is the ideal under the radar pickup to put a team over the next hump. Don’t be surprised when Maddon finds a spot for him in the lineup everyday. Rodriguez is going to have to compete for playing time. Brignac should probably be packaged with Neimann for a solid catching prospect.
Anyone know what we’re paying him?