Tiger Geist

Buster Olney reports that Tampa Bay has another problem:  Troy Percival sprained his knee.

He writes here how Tampa may again be looking at Sheffield, though they really don’t want him.  And they have some pitching in the minors that Detroit might want.  Here’s an idea:  Give them Sheffield and Todd Jones (assuming Jones already cleared waivers).  Offer to pay all of their salary for this year, and at least half of Sheffield’s salary for next year.

Again, I think the distraction that Sheffield will provide next year will be a huge burden for a team with a lot to prove.  They won’t eat all of his contract, but if they can get rid of him, open up a roster spot AND get something in return, pull the trigger.  Don’t just pull the trigger — fly to Tampa and take out their GM and convince him how awesome the trade is.  Run don’t walk.
I’ve read an article that the Tampa GM earlier this year stated that they know they don’t have the cash reserves to make a run every year, they need to bulk up, make a run, and then lay low again for a few years until their time comes around again.  Well, no time like the present.  Maybe we can throw in another prospect to sweeten the deal.  Think about it — how great would it be just to see Tampa beat out both the Red Sox and Yankees for the division?  And it rids Detroit of some of their dirty laundry?  Win-win.