Dan

Reichert

Reichert signed even though he’s not getting an invitation to major league spring training. Jose Silva, who apparently was offered the same deal that Reichert was, declined his chance to pitch in Indianapolis.

Reichert was released by the Rays two weeks ago.

After a nice start, Reichert hadn’t been all that effective for Syracuse, mainly because he was walking two batters every three innings. He had a 3.71 ERA in 35 relief appearances, giving up 48 hits and posting a 51/34 K/BB ratio in 51 innings. Expect more control problems now that he’s in the majors.

It’s looking like Reichert won’t be in the minors for long. Expect him to join the Toronto bullpen the first time the team needs a reliever.

Reichert had a 3.70 ERA in 87 2/3 innings as a reliever for Triple-A Indianapolis last season. The ex-Royal still needs to demonstrate better command if he’s going to help a major league team.

Reichert was the only one of these four to end the season on the major league roster, but his departure isn’t surprising. Smith and Thurman are the arguable choices here. Smith hasn’t developed as quickly as the Blue Jays would have liked, but even if it’s time to give up on him as a starter, he deserves a long look as a reliever. Thurman, a 2002 Rule 5 pick, was pretty good in Triple-A this year. The Jays seem to feel that he doesn’t have much upside and they’re probably right. Still, he’s capable of helping a major league club.

He was pitching in the independent league until two months ago, and hasn’t been in the majors since 2003. He’ll provide organizational depth for Pittsburgh.

Reichert was pitching for an independent team in Maryland. The former first-round pick was 3-1 with a 3.40 ERA and ranked third in that league in strikeouts with 38. He hasn’t pitched in the majors since 2003.

Reichert had given up one unearned run in three innings this spring. Salary concerns likely led to his release.

Reichert has allowed three runs and 17 hits while posting a 15/4 K/BB ratio in 19 2/3 innings. Expect him to make an appearance in the Milwaukee bullpen soon.