Rays Sign Brian Shouse as Left Handed Help
It looks like J.P. Howell no longer carries the burden of being the sole left–handed reliever in the Rays bullpen. The team signed 40–year–old Brian Shouse to a two year deal, an uncharacteristically long contract for a player of his age and caliber. Shouse debuted in MLB in 1993 and resurfaced in 1998 and 2002 before having his “rookie” season at age 34, shortly after developing his trademark sidearm pitching delivery. He has had a few good seasons with Texas and Milwaukee, including 2008, when he had a 2.81 ERA in 69 appearances and held left–handed hitters to a .180 batting average. He can give those guys some epileptic fits at the plate with his unorthodox pitching style. Between that and his durability, he might as well be years younger than he is. Maybe he could really give the Rays two good years. With Trever Miller gone, we’ll need them.
Welcome to the Rays, Brian.
P.S.: Rays FanFest has been confirmed for February 14th. I will be there — hours early, of course — to get my share of autographs and unique Tropicana Field experiences. Join me, Valentine’s Day or not, as we celebrate our mutual love of the American League Champions.
P.P.S.: I am about to embark on a journey into the field of sports journalism. I have joined the sports writing staff at The Minaret, the official newspaper of The University of Tampa. I should be writing my first articles very soon. So until next time, go Rays.
Rising From the Ashes 