Tampa Bay Rays Interested in Jeff Keppinger

The Tampa Bay Rays are reportedly interested in infielder Jeff Keppinger, according to Jerry Crasnick via twitter. Crasnick adds that Keppinger, 31, would give the Rays additional depth in the middle infield behind Sean Rodriguez, Ben Zobrist, and Evan Longoria.

Entering his eight season as a career .281 / .332 / .388 hitter, Keppinger has bounced around clubs like the Mets, Royals, Reds, and Giants, with slightly more than two seasons with the Houston Astros from 2009-2011. Keppinger spent most or all of his games in 2011 at 2nd base, but hit just .255 in 99 games.

Crasnick further adds that Keppinger is still in contact with other clubs.

• Twitter / @jcrasnick - "The #Rays have expressed interest in Jeff Keppinger, who became a free agent when "#SFGiants non-tendered him in December."
• Twitter / @jcrasnick - "Keppinger, a .281 career hitter, would give #Rays manager Joe Maddon another middle INF option. Still talking to other clubs as well."