Reds interested in limited role for Sheffield

[April 03, 2009]  SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) -- The Cincinnati Reds have an interest in free agent Gary Sheffield, but only if he'll accept a limited role

Manager Dusty Baker says Thursday that he plans to talk to Sheffield, whom he has known for many years. Baker acknowledged that the 40-year-old outfielder would have to accept a limited role with the Reds, who are set in the outfield. Sheffield could pinch-hit and be a fill-in at first base and in the outfield with Cincinnati.

The Philadelphia Phillies are among the teams who have expressed an interest in Sheffield. The Detroit Tigers released him on Tuesday after he batted only .178 in spring training.

[Associated Press]

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