Pete

Laforest

LaForest had a very disappointing season, hitting .222/.309/.367 in 84 games for Triple-A Durham. He’s a better player than that, but the Devil Rays might opt not to keep him on their 40-man roster this winter.

The Rays don’t believe the injury is serious, but he’ll be examined today.

The knee has bothered him occasionally this spring and flared up Monday as he ran out a double against the Blue Jays.

LaForest has only been with Triple-A Durham for six games, playing in five, but is hitting .421 with three home runs and seven RBI. He also played in Monday’s Hall of Fame exhibition, and drew good reviews from manager Lou Piniella. LaForest could see the majors in a September call up.

Just a tad late. Once LaForest gets some work in, he should take over as the No. 3 catcher on Tampa Bay’s depth chart, meaning that he’ll be called up if either Toby Hall or Javier Valentin gets hurt.

The Rays are interested in seeing LaForest hit, and will also give him a chance to catch some games this month. He’s not likely to help a fantasy squad.

LaForest will join the team today. He hit .269 with 14 homers and 38 RBI in 61 games at Durham. Manager Lou Piniella said LaForest could see time at catcher and DH this month.

Manager Lou Piniella said that LaForest, who is hitting .292 with eight homers and 17 RBI in 28 games at Durham, could get a look at DH so they Rays can ''find out if he can swing it up here or not.’'

LaForest went 40 at-bats this year and 85 overall before delivering a two-run blast off Paul Byrd today.

No team opted to take a chance on LaForest’s bat. His 2004 was very disappointing, but he still should become a useful major leaguer, perhaps in a bench role.