David Murphy thinks the Phils are longshots to land Sheffield:
The only place he would get to play in the field would be left, perhaps spelling Ibanez every now and then against left-handed pitchers. But the Phillies view Ibanez as an everday player, as evidenced by the every day money they gave him. So for Sheffield to sign with the Phillies, he would have to be content with being the team’s right-handed bat off the bench.
John Fayman he’ll go to Cincinnati, per Dusty Baker:
Based on what Dusty Baker said this morning, I would think its a long shot that the Reds sign Gary Sheffield:
Im sure he has some offers. I called Walt (Jocketty) for permission to make the call. I made the call. Walt talked to Mr. Castellini. I talked to Jim Leyland because (Sheffield) hasnt played outfield in a long time. His teammates liked him. Hes straightforward and says what he wants. Thats what he gets publicity for. But he told me hes quiet and off to himself on the clubhouse.
I dont know if were in the running or not. He wants playing time.
Looks like it’s playing time, playing time, playing time, which means the Phils aren’t quite in position to land him. Supposedly the three teams interested are the Phils, Reds and Braves, neither of which could give him the time he wants. Meanwhile the Braves are only mildly interested. If it’s just the Phils and Reds, the Phils would win; then again, Sheffield will hold out and wait for an offer that includes more playing time. An American League team, such as the Blue Jays, might be in the cards.
