Rays still seeking bench, bullpen help

The Rays actually have had a busy offseason, what with three major-league free-agent additions (catcher Wilson Ramos, outfielder Colby Rasmus and right-hander Shawn Tolleson), four trades, several waiver claims and the usual assortment of minorleague deals.

But even though it's mid January and there look to be 14 new faces on the 40-man roster, they are likely not done.

With prices dropping on dozens of free agents still on a market that was stalled until resolution of the CBA, the Rays are in position to add another veteran or two to a squad currently costing around $65 million.

One logical target would be a proven right-handed hitter, preferably to play first and elsewhere, though potentially at the bench spot of Tim Beckham (unless he learns the outfield) or Nick Franklin.

While not in on Mike Napoli, they could find that fit in Mark Reynolds, who can play several positions.

Much less versatile, though with more power, is Chris Carter.

Or they could add an outfielder, which could put a squeeze on newly acquired, though optionable, Mallex Smith or perhaps Steven Souza Jr. Austin Jackson, Franklin Gutierrez and Peter Bourjos are among those still available.

Another area that could use help is the bullpen, even with the addition of Tolleson, whose deal along with Rasmus' will be completed this week.

Though they seem to have more of a need for a lefty (a J.P. Howell reunion?), there are more righty options, with Sergio Romo among the most intriguing along with the likes of Fernando Salas, Joe Smith and Tom Wilhelmsen.

A deal with veteran Greg Holland is unlikely.

Other teams are looking for pieces, too, so there's still the possibility the Rays will get one of those toogood-to-pass-up offers for a key piece, such as 2B Logan Forsythe or a pitcher.

With last week's dumping of outfielder Mikie Mahtook to Detroit, the Rays have even less to show from their 2011 draft haul when they had 10 of the top 60 picks.

Only lefty Blake Snell, Mahtook and outfielder Tyler Goeddel (as a Rule 5 pick by the Phillies) have reached the majors yet.

Infielder Brandon Martin and outfielders Kes Carter and James Harris were released.

Infielder Jake Hager and pitchers Jeff Ames, Grayson Garvin and Taylor Guerrieri have had injury issues of various degree.

Despite the additions of Rasmus, Smith and waiverclaim Jason Coats, Mahtook said he had no inkling he would be traded.

“I wasn't anticipating anything,” he said. “I was just going about my offseason like I normally do, getting ready for spring training. Then I got the phone call. And then it got really weird."

Mahtook said he remains appreciative of the opportunity the Rays gave him.

While disappointed in his play, he said he leaves with no regrets and is excited by the chance to win the Tigers' centerfield job.