Report: Rays join D-Backs, Mets in Clippard sweepstakes
The Tampa Bay Rays are interested in Tyler Clippard becoming their new setup man after recently trading left-hander Jake McGee to the Colorado Rockies for outfielder Corey Dickerson, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times.
Clippard, one of the top free-agent relievers still available, grew up in the Tampa area, and Florida has no state income tax. Topkin suggests the combination of these two factors could push the righty to join the Rays.
The 30-year-old is also being pursued by the Arizona Diamondbacks, while the New York Mets are also vying to retain Clippard's services.
Related: D-Backs GM expects to reach out to Clippard
Clippard posted a 2.92 ERA with 19 saves and 64 strikeouts across 71 innings for the Oakland Athletics and Mets last season.
The veteran reliever earned $8.3 million for his services in 2015.