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Almost two weeks after throwing a showcase for approximately twenty teams in Tampa, free agent reliever Joel Hanrahan appears to be moving closer to signing. According to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com, the teams that appear to be seriously interested in signing Hanrahan include the Red Sox, Yankees, Rangers, Tigers and Rockies, and he is expected to sign before holding another showcase.
All five of those teams were in attendance for Hanrahan's showcase on April 18, along with the Mets, Royals, Indians, Twins, Tigers, Orioles, Rays, Blue Jays and others. The Mets have held internal debates about whether or not to pursue Hanrahan in recent weeks, but do not seem to be seriously pursuing him at this time. Hanrahan is believed to have a few offers in hand, meaning that he is likely now counteroffering and negotiating with teams in search for the best fit possible.
The Tigers' bullpen has been tough to watch so far this season, posting a 5.48 ERA in 67.1 innings over 22 games. They have been linked to Hanrahan and could pursue other free agents like Kevin Gregg or Todd Coffey in an effort to solve their bullpen woes. The Rangers and Yankees have also seen their bullpens struggle this season.
Hanrahan, 32, underwent Tommy John surgery last May after posting an 0-1 record and 9.82 ERA in nine early-season appearances with Boston after coming over in an offseason trade. Over seven major league seasons with the Nationals (2007-2009), Pirates (2009-2012) and Red Sox (2013), he has a lifetime 22-18 record and 3.85 ERA while tallying 100 saves and being named to the National League All-Star team on two occasions.