Rays, Wheeler Agree To Terms
The Rays avoided arbitration with reliever Dan Wheeler on Tuesday, agreeing to terms on a one-year contract that will pay him at least $2.875 million in 2008.
Wheeler, 30, who made $2.1 million last season, can earn an additional $25,000 if he makes at least 65 appearances this year, and that shouldn't be a problem based on his track record. The durable veteran has logged at least 70 appearances each of the past three seasons and is expected to work alongside Al Reyes in setting up new Rays closer Troy Percival.
Originally drafted by the Rays in 1996, Wheeler first pitched in the majors for Tampa Bay three years later. He also has big-league experience with the Mets and was a stalwart in the Houston Astros' bullpen from 2004 until he was traded to the Rays for Ty Wigginton last July 28.
Wheeler went 0-5 with a 5.76 ERA in 25 relief appearances for the Rays last season after saving 11 games earlier in the year as the Astros' closer.
Tampa Bay has three arbitration-eligible players remaining: Scott Kazmir, Carlos Pena and Jonny Gomes. The Rays remain confident they can get deals done with all three before Friday's deadline to exchange arbitration figures. If the parties can't reach an accord by then, the Rays' policy is to cut off negotiations and go to a hearing.
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Rays, Wheeler Agree To Terms
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