On Saturday, the Tampa Bay Rays announced that they have designated designated hitter Pat Burrell for assignment, and recalled Hank Blalock from Triple-A. From our Rays blog, DRaysBay:
Rays Designate Pat Burrell For Assignment, Recall Hank Blalock
We’ve spoke at length on Blalock in recent days. His career OPS against righties of .846 is a shiny number - especially compared to the production from the DH spot over the last year plus. Not to rain on Blalock’s parade, but that OPS against righties has been just .740 over the past three seasons.
That said, I’m all for giving Blalock an opportunity. He seems healthy, and mashed down in Durham.Though headed in opposite directions Saturday, the two hitters share a lot in common. Both are home run hitters who don’t hit for average particularly well. Blalock, though, is nearly five years younger than Burrell at age 28.
If Burrell ends up being released or placed on waivers, he may spark some interest. Although Burrell is two years removed from his last good season, he may be a good investment for teams like the White Sox (who, if you haven't heard, are playing with Omar Vizquel in the designated hitter spot).
For all things Rays, head on over to DRaysBay.
See More:
