Free Agent Outfielder Brad Hawpe Signs Minor League Contract With Rays

Confirming an earlier report, Brad Hawpe is signing with Tampa Bay.

By signing a minor league contract, Hawpe gives the Rays a little time to work out how they’re going to arrange their roster. As Marc Topkin notes, he will be activated in time to be postseason-eligible:

The conversation right now is focusing on what lies ahead for Brad Hawpe, as he’s a free agent able to negotiate with any team in the league. Rockies fans, however, would prefer to reflect on the past, and what Hawpe represents. Says SB Nation Denver:

There has been something of a quiet changing of the guard in Colorado, as the team no longer much resembles the team that made a title run just a few years back.

What was rumored has come true - nominal outfield Brad Hawpe is now officially a free agent, able to negotiate with any team in the league.

While Renck speculates that the Padres and Rangers will be interested in Hawpe’s services, Ken Rosenthal hears from a source that it’s the Rangers, Red Sox, and Rays who are placing calls.