[picappgallerysingle id="4224264"]With JP Howell shelved for at least a month, the Rays are going to have to take a look at their bullpen options from the left side. Randy Choate was already pretty much a lock to make the roster. But, it would seem that they will need a second option to open the year.
By all indications, there doesn’t seem to be very many options internally. Jake McGee probably won’t be given a chance despite pitching well in 4 1/3 innings early in spring games. He allowed no runs on two hits while striking out six. RJ Swindle might be an option, but he, too, has been shuttled to the minor league camp after experiencing some injury issues.
On the free agent market, I think Joe Beimel should draw some interest. The 32-year-old veteran had a decent 2009 season, splitting time with the Washington Nationals and Colorado Rockies. He had a 3.58 ERA in 71 appearances during the season, when he made $2 million dollars. One would figure that his price tag has dropped quite a little, considering we’re only about two weeks from opening day. Reports are that the Rockies are interested in bringing him back now that Huston Street is laid up. The Mets had been interested, but it seems that has cooled.
As everyone who follows the Rays knows, JP Howell plays a vital roll in the bullpen, getting the game to the closer. Finding a comparable replacement will be difficult. But, Howell’s absence leaves a glaring hole.
