It’s become the norm to offer relievers multiyear deals during the 2010 hot stove season, and the Red Sox followed that formula to sign Bobby Jenks. However, they likely will not do the same with former Tampa Bay reliever Dan Wheeler.
According to CSNNE’s Sean McAdam, the Red Sox are interested in acquiring Wheeler, and are still talking with the Rhode Island native, but they are not looking to offer more than a one-year contract.
WEEI.com backed up McAdam’s claim that the Red Sox are continuing conversations with Wheeler. The website also reported that the Red Sox are no longer focused on bringing in left-hander Brian Fuentes.
In a reliever-friendly market, Wheeler could land two years with another club this offseason, but he could side with the Red Sox because it’s closer to his hometown.
Wheeler, 33, made 64 appearances out of the Rays’ bullpen last season, posting a 3.35 ERA in 48 1/3 innings. The right-hander also has pitched for the Mets and Astros over his 11-year career in the majors.
