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Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 8/11, 7:40 PM CT
Troy Percival considers himself retired, as he does not feel that he can handle pitching any longer, according to the St. Petersburg Times. He said, "I still wish I was out there playing and what have you, but at least my mind is clear that I know I just physically can't do it."

Our View: The 40-year-old added that he is done unless a miracle happens. He will leave the game with 358 career saves, if he does in fact hang up his cleats.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSunday 8/9, 9:50 PM CT
Troy Percival is reportedly considering hanging up his cleats due to his back issues, according to the St. Petersburg Times.

Our View: Percival is unlikely to hold fantasy value for the remainder of the season. He has 358 career saves, and had a good run if his career is over.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysMonday 6/1, 2:15 PM CT
The OC Register is reporting that Troy Percival has begun working with a specialist in Southern California with an eye on making a return this season. Percival is on the DL with right shoulder tendinitis.

Our View: It was widely believed that Percival would retire, so this news comes as a bit of a surprise. Percival has never been one to back down from a challenge, but even if he does return this season he would be along shot to have fantasy value.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 5/22, 5:52 PM CT
MLB.com reports that Troy Percival has returned to California to discuss the possibility of retirement with his family. He was placed on the 15-day DL earlier on Friday with right shoulder tendinitis. Joe Maddon spoke with Percival after his most recent blown save and said that he would not be surprised to see the closer take that route.

Our View: So who would replace Percival? There are quite a few options. Dan Wheeler, J.P. Howell, Grant Balfour and even Jason Isringhausen could all get a shot. The Rays have recently promoted David Price as well, and once Scott Kazmir (quad) returns from his DL stint, they will have to figure out what to do with their six starters.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 5/22, 3:44 PM CT
The St. Petersburg Times is reporting that the Rays have placed closer Troy Percival on the 15-day DL with right shoulder tendinitis. Percival has six saves on the year.

Our View: Percival has been an injury waiting to happen during his stint with the Rays, so this one should not come as a shocker. The Rays haven't announced who will close in his absence, but look for it to be a closer by committee until someone establishes himself as the strongest candidate.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSunday 5/17, 5:30 PM CT
Troy Percival picked up his sixth save of the season in the Rays 7-5 win over the Indians on Sunday. He struck out two of the final three batters, but he did hit the leadoff hitter, Mark DeRosa.

Our View: Percival has given up a run in just one appearance since April 15. That was four days ago when he allowed four runs while picking up one out in Baltimore.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 5/6, 10:36 PM CT
Troy Percival picked up his fifth save of the season as he lowered his ERA to 2.08.

Our View: Percival is clearly the choice for saves in Tampa, but we just cannot envision a scenario in which he stays healthy, and productive, long enough to rack up a huge save total. Ride him while he is hot, but don't be surprised when/if he falters.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 4/17, 10:55 PM CT
Closer Troy Percival and the Rays bullpen finally had a quiet(ish) night on Friday. He worked a scoreless ninth inning against the White Sox and earned his second save of the season.

Our View: Percival made it interesting my allowing a single, giving up two steals, and walking a guy before getting the final out. We figure he was just making it fun for the home crowd.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSunday 3/22, 4:21 PM CT
Troy Percival threw another perfect inning as the Rays beat the Yankees 5-0 on Sunday.

Our View: The closer has yet to give up a hit or a walk this spring over four appearances. He will be their closer as long as he is healthy, but he may be on a short leash due to a long list of talented arms in the bullpen. He is coming off of a back surgery.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 3/20, 10:25 AM CT
The St. Petersburg Times believes Troy Percival will likely be the Rays' closer for opening day. He has fared well in three spring outings and skipper Joe Maddon said, "As of right now he is showing that he can or could be. He really has been sharp. Right now he is, for me, ahead of where I thought he would be at this particular juncture." Percival is coming off off-season back surgery.

Our View: This news raises the fantasy stock of the 39-year-old vet, and lowers the value of Dan Wheeler. Wheeler is better suited to be a setup man anyway.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 3/12, 3:13 PM CT
Troy Percival threw a perfect fifth inning Thursday against the Phillies. The Rays reliever needed only nine pitches to get three outs in his spring debut.

Our View: This was a good start for Percival. If he can remain healthy the Rays will be happy to hand him the closer role, therefore significantly upping his fantasy value.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 3/5, 10:59 AM CT
Troy Percival threw 30 pitches in a batting practice session Wednesday and looked tip top, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Pitching coach Jim Hickey was pleasantly surprised and said Percival was, "more advanced really than he needs to be."

Our View: Percival seems surprisingly effective after having back surgery, but he's still one of several pitchers vying for the Rays' closer role. He has little fantasy value unless he gets the job.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 2/13, 12:04 PM CT
Troy Percival, who is recovering from back surgery, expects to be ready to pitch for opening day, according to the St. Petersburg Times. He said, "I have had no setbacks. I will be ready in spring training. I have already been off the mound twice. I get really stiff for about two hours after I am done, but I think that is pretty good considering I had 5 1/2 hours of back surgery."

Our View: This is encouraging news, but the 39-year-old reliever remains a risky fantasy option for 2009.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 12/10, 8:11 PM CT
The Tampa Tribune reports that the Rays aren't sure exactly where Troy Percival will stand to start the season, and they'd like to have somebody around they could use to fill in but also option down if and when Percival is ready.

Our View: They would prefer to land someone via trade rather than add one of the veteran free agents. Percival recently had back surgery and his status for spring training is uncertain.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 12/2, 7:00 AM CT
Troy Percival is slated to undergo back surgery today, according to MLB.com. The procedure will be performed by Dr. Robert Watkins in California.

Our View: The 39-year-old reliever should be ready for opening day, barring a setback in his rehab.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSaturday 11/15, 2:04 PM CT
Troy Percival is expected to decide whether he will opt for surgery on his back and right knee by next week, according to MLB.com.

Our View: The 39-year-old is going through his regular rehab, but isn't throwing because it is too early in the off-season. He will see more doctors before making a final decision. The team does not believe they will have the resources to sign a top free agent closer and may have to settle for more frugal choices, such as Kyle Farnsworth, Eddie Guardado, or Keith Foulke, to name a few.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 10/22, 5:10 PM CT
Troy Percival was left off of the Rays World Series roster, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Percival is still available as an injury replacement.

Our View: Although Percival is healthy, it's difficult to disagree with Maddon's decision to keep the bullpen the same. Aside from the seven-run collapse in Game 5 against Boston, the Rays bullpen has been solid all October.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSaturday 10/11, 7:54 AM CT
Rays reliever Troy Percival was left off the ALCS roster, but was not with the team and may have left for his home in California, according to the Tampa Tribune.

Our View: Other players who were left off the roster were with the team, and it was known that Percival wanted to be put on, so it reflects poorly on him not to show up and support the organization.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 10/9, 1:51 PM CT
Troy Percival has been left off the Rays' ALCS roster, according to the St. Petersburg Times.

Our View: He did not report any issues during his throwing sessions this week, and felt his back was healthy enough to pitch in the next round against Boston, but the Rays ultimately decided to name Edwin Jackson to the roster to serve as a potential fifth starter.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 10/7, 4:20 PM CT
The Tampa Tribune reports that Troy Percival completed another throwing session on Monday and he reported no problems with his back. It appears he is on his way to rejoining the Rays as they make their unprecedented run towards the World Series.

Our View: In four appearances against Boston this season, Percy has two saves and a 10.13 ERA. He threw 2.2 innings and allowed three runs.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysMonday 10/6, 9:50 AM CT
Troy Percival threw an inning in an instructional league game Satur­day and likely will do so again Monday, according to the St. Petersburg Times. He is recovering from a back ailment.

Our View: Manager Joe Maddon noted that Percival felt pretty good after the session, and the reliever is hoping to return in a later round of the postseason.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 10/1, 4:49 PM CT
Troy Percival will not likely be on the ALDS roster for the Rays according to the Tampa Tribune. He is still dealing with a knee problem although he did pitch some in the final week of the season. The roster will not be official until 10 a.m. on Thursday.

Our View: It will be interesting to see who gets the call to close but expect it to be Dan Miller. Six different Rays' pitchers had more than one save this season.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 9/25, 5:41 PM CT
Troy Percival, who is dealing with a knee problem, pitched for the first time in four days on Thursday, allowing a walk in one inning.

Our View: It was a good outing for the closer as he tunes up for the postseason.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 9/25, 12:27 PM CT
Troy Percival isn't certain if he will be able to help his mates come playoff time, according to the St. Petersburg Times. "Health-wise, I think I'll be fine," he said after undergoing an epidural injection to speed his recover from a back injury. "It's up to them on what they want to do to give them the best opportunity to win."

Our View: Percival has been great this year in terms of providing leadership and some saves (28), but he has been a broken down hurler in the second half with a 6.89 ERA and 1.79 WHIP in 19 appearances. Given that level of performance, the team should probably go with another option.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 9/23, 5:39 PM CT
Tampa closer Troy Percival will return to the Rays on Thursday. He had an epidural shot in his back, which responded well to the treatment, according to MLB.com.

Our View: Percival will not necessarily be the closer upon his return, and that includes the postseason. It's probably wise to leave him off fantasy rosters this last week.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 9/23, 10:41 AM CT
The St. Petersburg Times indicates that Troy Percival is slated for a second epidural injection in his back Tuesday.

Our View: He won't be available to pitch until at least Thursday, and shall remain on the bench in fantasy leagues.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 9/11, 8:44 PM CT
Troy Percival left the Rays game with the Red Sox on Wednesday night because of a back issue and not a recurrence of anything having to do with his knee, according to MLB.com. Apparently his back locked up on him and he was having trouble bending over.

Our View: Given the fact that it's one thing after another with Percival it would be a surprise to see the team attempt to role Percival out there in the ninth inning moving forward, especially when one considers his awful work of late which includes a 8.10 ERA and 1.73 WHIP over his last 16 appearances. Percival maintains he will be fine, but we would be looking to Dan Wheeler to pick up the saves moving forward.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysMonday 9/8, 11:13 AM CT
Troy Percival has struggled since returning from the DL (knee), but manager Joe Maddon continues to hold faith in him and isn't considering pulling him as the Rays' closer, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Maddon said, "The only way I would mix somebody else in is if he's not available on that particular night. If he's available, he'll go out there."

Our View: The 39-year-old blew his fourth save Saturday and has allowed six runs and four hits in two outings since returning, but his job is safe for the time being.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSaturday 9/6, 5:37 PM CT
Troy Percival, who has not recorded a save since August 13th, blew an opportunity on Saturday against the Blue Jays. Entering the game in the 13th, he loaded the bases before allowing a walk-off grand slam to veteran catcher Gregg Zaun.

Our View: Percival has not complained about his knee which had been severe enough to put him on the DL in August. However, in his two appearances since his return, he has allowed two home runs and six earned runs while recording just four outs. Although nothing has been mentioned, it is possible that he may be in danger of losing his everyday closer's job.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 9/4, 3:41 PM CT
It might not have been the return Troy Percival was looking for Wednesday night, but after his first appearance since being activated from the DL, Percival says he could pitch again tonight, according to the St. Petersburg Times.

Our View: Percival gave up a ninth inning two-out homer to Alex Rodriguez last night, but his return means he is back in the Rays closer role.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 9/2, 9:01 PM CT
Rays closer Troy Percival was, as expected, activated from the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday, according to the AP.

Our View: Percival will once again be the team's closer after being out with a knee injury since mid-August.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSunday 8/31, 12:46 PM CT
Rays closer Troy Percival will be activated from the disabled list on Tuesday after recovering from cartilage damage in his knee, according to the Tampa Tribune.

Our View: Percival should return to the role of closer, in which he has 27 saves and a WHIP of 1.03, each good numbers for fantasy owners.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 8/28, 3:32 PM CT
Troy Percival is another step closer to returning to the Rays. Percival, who has been on the DL with cartilage damage in his right knee, threw live batting practice off the mound today and according to the Tampa Tribune is eligible to come off the DL on Saturday.

Our View: If the Rays feel like Percival has made big enough strides in his rehab he could be activated on Saturday, if not they could just wait until the rosters expand on September 1.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 8/26, 10:19 AM CT
Troy Percival, who is on the DL with cartilage damage in his right knee, played long toss Monday, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Executive VP Andrew Friedman thought it went well.

Our View: The 39-year-old reliever said last week that he was hoping to be ready to return when he's eligible to come off the DL on Saturday.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysMonday 8/18, 3:57 PM CT
Updating an earlier report, Troy Percival will not require surgery to repair cartilage damage on his right knee, according to the St. Petersburg Times.

Our View: It has been determined that enough progress had been made the previous few days to avoid surgery. He is still expected to miss 2-4 weeks of action.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysMonday 8/18, 2:41 PM CT
Troy Percival could undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, but he was hoping it wouldn't be necessary, according to the Tampa Tribune. He said, "It's very possible surgery will be necessary. But I felt good today, played catch, had pain, but nothing that's debilitating."

Our View: Percival made about 40 throws Sunday and didn't feel well enough to pitch, but thinks he will be able to in another day if he continues to progress as he has since receiving a cortisone shot Friday. We will keep you posted on his status.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 8/15, 6:43 PM CT
Troy Percival is expected to miss 2-4 weeks because of the knee injury that has landed him on the DL, according to the St. Petersburg Times. VP Andrew Friedman said regarding Percival's knee that there is "cartilage involvement" that is "not a tear." A decision will be made soon on whether Percvial should have surgery or go through rehab and get a cortisone shot.

Our View: If Percival has surgery, you'd have to think his season would be over. We'll let you know what the club decides.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 8/15, 2:54 PM CT
Updating an earlier report, Troy Percival has landed on the 15-day DL due to his sprained right knee, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Juan Salas has been recalled from Triple-A as the corresponding move.

Our View: Grant Balfour is believed to be a top candidate for the closer's role while he is out, with Dan Wheeler also in the competition. There is no indication yet as to how long Percival will be out.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 8/15, 12:36 PM CT
Troy Percival could be headed back to the DL due to a sprained right knee, according to the St. Petersburg Times.

Our View: He was seen on crutches with his right knee in a compression brace after suffering the injury Thursday. Percival will be re-evaluated Friday, and a DL stint is probable. Grant Balfour would be a top candidate to take over his closer's role.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 8/14, 6:26 PM CT
Rays closer Troy Percival had to leave the game in the ninth inning because of an apparent leg injury, according to RaysBaseball.com.

Our View: The extent of the injury was not known. Grant Balfour replaced Percival and promptly blew the save.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 7/25, 10:56 PM CT
Troy Percival picked up his 21st save of the season on Friday, although he did allow one solo home run to Kansas City's Ross Gload.

Our View: Percival saw his ERA jump a bit, but so far so good in his return from the disabled list.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysMonday 7/21, 12:17 PM CT
Troy Percival is confident his leg will be able to hold up over the duration of the second half of the season, and his arm feels as good as it has in a long time, according to the Tampa Tribune.

Our View: He pitched well in his first game back from the DL on Sunday, as he allowed one hit and no walks over an inning of work against Toronto, with one strikeout. He is safe to return to your lineups.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSunday 7/20, 11:36 AM CT
Troy Percival has been activated from the DL following his fight with a strained left hamstring, according to the Tampa Tribune. The team placed Gary Glover on the 15-day DL to make room for Percival on the roster.

Our View: Percival is not offering a guarantee, but is feeling 10 times better than he did following his previous stint on the DL this season. The Rays’ medical team figured out that a nerve problem in Percival’s back was actually causing most of his hamstring issues and they have begun to treat his back rather than his leg. He is expected to resume his role as the Rays' closer and should be safe to insert back into your lineups.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSaturday 7/19, 4:36 PM CT
Troy Percival, on the DL with a strained left hamstring, had no problems Saturday, throwing 10 pitches and fielding balls from the mound. He also was able to cover first base without any limping, according to the St. Petersburg Times.

Our View: Manager Joe Maddon said he plans to talk to Percival again before deciding when his closer will return, but it appears the veteran will be back soon.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 7/18, 6:28 PM CT
With continued updates, the Rays report closer Troy Percival is feeling no discomfort or pain after throwing to batters on Thursday and will be re-examined this evening, according to the Associated Press.

Our View: Sidelined since July 1 with a left hamstring strain, Percival appears to be on schedule with his recover and could rejoin the team within the next few days. We'll keep you posted.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 7/17, 5:31 PM CT
The Tampa Tribune reports that Troy Percival threw to hitters today and apparently felt good. He’ll get a thorough once-over from the medical staff before he’s cleared to come off the DL, but that could come this weekend.

Our View: The Rays will place Percival back into the closer's role once he returns, which could be Saturday.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSunday 7/13, 9:12 AM CT
The 26-pitch bullpen session of Rays closer Troy Percival went well, and he may be activated from the disabled list by next weekend, according to the Tampa Tribune. "It's the first time I pitched without having my leg taped up in six weeks, and it felt great," Percival said.

Our View: Percival has been a better than expected closer for the Rays, and it sounds like you won't have to wait much longer to get him back on your fantasy team.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 7/11, 9:28 PM CT
The AP reports that Rays manager Joe Maddon said RHP Troy Percival will test his strained left hamstring by throwing off the mound Saturday.

Our View: The Rays closer has yet to pitch this month, but all indications are that he will be available following the All-Star break.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 7/8, 12:20 PM CT
Manager Joe Maddon commented that Troy Percival seems to be doing well in his recovery from his left hamstring strain, according to the Tampa Tribune. Maddon said he is doing laps around the training room.

Our View: The source states that he could be activated as early as the first game after the All-Star break, which would be July 18 against Toronto at Tropicana Field.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 7/1, 11:45 PM CT
Troy Percival has landed on the 15-day DL due to a left hamstring strain, according to the St. Petersburg Times. The Rays recalled right-hander Mitch Talbot from Triple-A Durham, as a corresponding move.

Our View: The Rays will most likely use a closer-by-committee while Percival is on the shelf, with righties Dan Wheeler and Grant Balfour, and lefty J.P. Howell among the top candidates.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 7/1, 9:23 AM CT
Troy Percival re injured his hamstring on Monday night while backing up third base and had to be removed from the game, according to the Tampa Tribune. "There’s been nights when I’ve gotten through my inning no problem and come in here and said there’s no way I’m going to be able to go tomorrow and then I come back the next day and it’s not as bad. So I don’t want to jump the gun on any of that, because it might be OK.”

Our View: The decision to send him back to the DL hasn't yet been made, but it certainly appeared that it is something that they will have to seriously consider. Dan Wheeler would figure to be first in line for saves, though Grant Belfour could also sneak in there given his success this year.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 6/26, 12:10 PM CT
Troy Percival is still experiencing occasional pain in his ailing left hamstring, according to the Tampa Tribune. He said, "It's just something I'm going to have to deal with until it gets better. It's not anything that'll keep me from going out there, but there might be a day where it's worse than others where I might need a day off."

Our View: Percival will be checked upon on a daily basis, but believes he'll be able to work his way through the issue. The ailment affected his play on Tuesday against the Marlins, as he allowed four walks.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 6/25, 7:39 PM CT
Troy Percival continues to focus on building up his leg strength in an effort to aid his mechanics especially in light of his recent hamstring injury, according to MLB.com. "My arm feels fantastic," Percival said. "My leg is still a little bit weak so I have a tough time getting out on top of it... It's nothing I can't deal with."

Our View: Percival has been tremendous while on the hill with 18 saves and a 0.87 WHIP driving a solid Rays bullpen to success. Time will tell if he can stay healthy, but he has been a great bargain so far.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 6/24, 10:06 PM CT
Troy Percival picked up his 18th save on Tuesday, but not without some drama. The 38 year-old walked four, including three consecutive, before getting his third out.

Our View: If nothing else, manager Joe Maddon stuck by his man. Maybe Percival just felt he needed some work. He had not pitched in six days.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 6/18, 11:47 PM CT
Reliever Troy Percival recorded another save in support of the Rays' 5-4 win over the Cubs tonight, his 17th close of the season also representing his 341st career save.

Our View: That ties Percival with Hall of Fame closer Rollie Fingers for ninth on the all-time saves list.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 6/13, 5:45 PM CT
The Tampa Bay Rays reinstated closer Troy Percival from the 15-day disabled list on Friday, this according to the AP. The closer will take the roster spot of reliever Al Reyes who was placed on disabled list today. Percival strained his left hamstring in the Rays' 5-3 victory over Texas on May 28 and went on the DL one day later.

Our View: He is 1-0 with 14 saves in 16 chances and a 2.95 ERA in 22 games this season and will resume his closing duties effective tonight.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 6/10, 7:59 PM CT
Troy Percival threw a simulated inning on Tuesday and remains on schedule to come off the DL on Friday, the Tampa Tribune reports. He is out due to a sore left hamstring.

Our View: Fantasy owners can plan to activate Troy this weekend.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysMonday 6/9, 8:58 PM CT
Troy Percival is scheduled to throw a simulated inning on Tuesday, according to MLB.com. He is eligible to return from the DL on Friday and is expected to be activated then. "Three outs and call it good," said Percival. "You never know what's going to happen, but my body feels good." Percival has been out with a strained hamstring.

Our View: Dan Wheeler will go back to a setup role upon Troy's return.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 5/30, 9:56 AM CT
The Rays erred on the side of caution Thursday when they placed closer Troy Percival on the 15-day disabled list, this according to the St. Petersburg Times. After an MRI exam came back positive, manager Joe Maddon said they didn't want to take any chances with the veteran and he should serve the minimum number of days on the DL.

Our View: Percival, who plans to make the team's upcoming nine-game road trip, said he hopes to be throwing on the side within a week.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 5/29, 3:06 PM CT
Troy Percival has been placed on the 15-day DL, according to the St. Petersburg Times. His hamstring injury isn't serious, and he isn't expected to miss more than the 15 days. Executive VP Andrew Friedman said, "We're confident that it’s not anything that’s going to linger into a month or months of missed time and that was first and foremost the most important thing on our minds. Once we got past that, now it’s figuring out how best to handle it." Infielder Willy Aybar has been activated from the DL as an adjoining move.

Our View: The team decided to go the cautious route with Percival, as he has been valuable to the team with 14 saves and a 0.66 WHIP over 21.1 innings, with 21 strikeouts so far in 2008. Dan Wheeler and Al Reyes are likely to split closing duties while Percival is out.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 5/29, 12:58 PM CT
Troy Percival's MRI on his left leg came back clean, and showed no serious damage, according to the Tampa Tribune.

Our View: That doesn't mean he'll avoid a trip to the DL, however. But, if he does land on the DL, the Rays are confident that he'll be back in the minimum amount of time. The hamstring injury is not believed to linger through the season, which is good news as he registered 14 saves with a 0.66 WHIP over 21.1 innings, with 21 strikeouts so far in 2008.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 5/28, 3:31 PM CT
Troy Percival will undergo an MRI on his left hamstring on Wednesday night, the Tampa Tribune reports. The closer had been experiencing a bit of soreness recently, but it turned worse during Wednesday's win over the Rangers. The Rays will know more after the exam.

Our View: The Rays are likely to err on the side of caution when it comes to Percival, and fantasy owners should be ready to jump on Dan Wheeler. We'll update Troy's status when more is known.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 5/28, 2:33 PM CT
Troy Percival left Wednesday's game against the Rangers in the ninth inning after suffering an apparent leg injury. After throwing a called-third strike to Brandon Boggs - the second out of the inning - the veteran closer slipped and fell on the mound and was seen limping soon thereafter.

Our View: At this point, the severity of the injury is unclear. It's possible Percival was simply removed from the game as a precaution, but given the right-hander's age and injury-stricken past, nothing is certain. Dan Wheeler entered the game to seal the victory, and he would be the most likely candidate to step into the closer role long-term should Percival be forced to miss an extended period of time.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 5/23, 5:22 PM CT
Troy Percival appears good to go tonight after being unavailable Wednesday due to tightness in his left hamstring, according to the Tampa Tribune. The closer tweaking the hammy in Tuesday's game.

Our View: Percival is no spring chicken so any injury is certainly worth monitoring. It sounds like he'll be fine, though.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 5/21, 3:07 PM CT
Troy Percival reportedly felt some tightness in his left hamstring during Tuesday's win against Oakland, according to the St. Petersburg Times.

Our View: The closer is expected to be fine by Friday, but won't be used Wednesday. He is enjoying a strong resurgance this season with 13 saves, and a 0.68 WHIP over 19 innings, with 18 strikeouts.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 5/9, 8:35 PM CT
Troy Percival, who blew his first save of the season on Thursday, is not in jeopardy of losing his role, according to the Tampa Tribune. Percival, who had allowed just three baserunners (two hits and a walk) in starting the season with 11 scoreless innings, gave up three runs in the ninth.

Our View: Percival has appeared in 12 games and has allowed six hits, one walk while striking out 12. Not bad for a player who retired before the 2007 season.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 5/8, 10:34 PM CT
Troy Percival suffered his first blown save of the season as he blew an eight inning shutout of starter Edwin Jackson on Thursday night as he allowed four hits and three runs in one inning.

Our View: Percival had been perfect on seven save chances and hadn't allowed a run in his first 11 innings on the year. We are still rooting for Percival, and this is only one game, but keep an eye on things as we have the feeling they could go south rather quickly with Percival.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSaturday 4/5, 4:18 PM CT
Troy Percival needed 13 pitches to pick up his first save of the season for the Rays on Saturday. Percival is being counted on to be the team's stopper out of the bullpen this season but the situation bares watching as Percival hasn't thrown 50 innings in a season since 2002. If you own Percival, make sure you have also rostered Al Reyes.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSunday 3/23, 6:15 PM CT
Troy Percival , a free agent from St. Louis this winter, was tagged for seven earned runs and six hits with one walk and one strikeout over one inning of work on Sunday. The new Rays closer is not only subject to train wrecks like today, but it's unlikely he can stay healthy for an entire 162 game season. Owners who draft Percival should back him up with Dan Wheeler and Al Reyes. All three pitchers are in line for save opps this summer.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysThursday 3/6, 6:36 PM CT
Troy Percival made his spring debut on Thursday and by all accounts it was a successful outing, this according to MLB.com. It took Percival only nine pitches to record three outs including one strike out. Percival likely will be used sparingly the rest of the spring, and there really is no way to know how he will hold up over the course of the season. But saves are saves and he is the first man who will be called on to pick them up for the Rays.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 3/5, 11:37 AM CT
Troy Percival will make his spring debut on Thursday, following a workout on Tuesday. "I spoke with him afterwards and he felt great, so he's on task," manager Joe Maddon tells MLB.com. He still has plenty of time to get up to speed and is expected to be the closer on opening day.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSunday 2/17, 4:37 PM CT
Troy Percival is ready to resume his previous role of closer in 2008 for the Rays according to a report on MLB.com. Percival had basically retired in July 2005 due to injury, but he made a surprising comeback last season pitching for the Cardinals posting a 1.80 ERA and 0.85 WHIP in 40 innings. He will look to hold of Al Reyes and Dan Wheeler this year, but he has to be considered suspect at best to hold on to the closers role for the entire season given his recent injury history and age (38).
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 11/30, 10:47 AM CT
ESPN.com reports the Rays and Troy Percival have agreed on a two-year deal worth $8 million. The deal also includes incentives for Percival that are based on appearances and games finished. At this point, it's unclear what Percival's role will be in Tampa, but it's at least possible he'll be considered for the closer role, pushing Al Reyes into setup duty.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 11/14, 10:52 AM CT
The Rays are one of several teams that is heavily pursuing Troy Percival this winter, according to the Tampa Tribune. The club may even be considered one of the frontrunners, considering Percival's close relationship with manager Joe Maddon. Should Percival sign with Tampa, he could potentially be used in the closer role, depending on what the team chooses to do with Al Reyes, whose team option is expected to be picked up today.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSunday 9/30, 8:03 AM CT
Troy Percival has made 638 career appearances without a start. That streak will end Sunday, when Percival takes the mound in the first inning against the Pirates, according to the St. Louis Post-Disaptch. At most, Percival will work a couple of innings.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 9/19, 11:35 AM CT
Troy Percival would like to pitch again next season, and the 38-year-old thinks just pitching half of a season again may be the way to go. "I’ve got enough saves and I think a half-season back here would be ideal," Percival said in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. "As long as I feel productive — productive and useful — then I'd like to keep going. And I've felt that way here." Percival has been outstanding for the Cards, holding a 2.00 ERA and 0.86 WHIP with a 33/8 K/BB rate over 36 innings, after coming out of retirement following nearly a two-year absence. He said it would probably take a closer or setup job for a West Coast team to convince him to think about pitching a full season.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSunday 9/2, 10:29 PM CT
Troy Percival strained a quad muscle on Saturday night. He hopes to be ready by Tuesday, at the latest, according to the AP.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 6/26, 7:29 PM CT
The Cardinals called up Troy Percival from Triple-A Memphis on Tuesday, according to the AP. The team is hoping he can help a bullpen that has struggled this season. He appeared in six games for Memphis and had a 1.35 ERA in 6 2/3 innings.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 6/8, 7:49 PM CT
Troy Percival, who has been out of the majors since injuring his right arm in the middle of the 2005 season, will try to make a comeback with the Cardinals, according to the AP. Percival and the Cardinals agreed on a minor league contract Friday. He will report to Triple-A Memphis.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 5/30, 8:31 AM CT
Add the Indians to the list of teams showing interest in reliever Troy Percival . According to the Indians official website, the team sent at least one scout to watch Percival’s throwing session on Tuesday in California. The Tribe is seeking depth for the back end of their bullpen and has been less than thrilled with the play of Roberto Hernandez and Fernando Cabrera.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysTuesday 5/29, 8:21 AM CT
The Tigers will watch Troy Percival throw a bullpen session on Tuesday. “He really, really likes the Detroit organization,” Percival’s agent, Paul Cohen, told the Detroit Free Press. “He liked his time there. He has a very positive feeling for the Tigers.” Percival has drawn interest from as many as nine teams, according to his agent.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysWednesday 5/23, 9:25 PM CT
Troy Percival, who last pitched in the big leagues in 2005, will attempt a comeback, according to the AP. Percival, the Angels special assignment pitching instructor, asked the team to release him from his minor league coaching contract on Wednesday so he can try to pitch again in the majors.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysSaturday 5/19, 6:53 AM CT
Troy Percival plans to make a comeback this season. "He called me [Friday] morning and said, 'Let's go,' " said Paul Cohen, Percival's agent. "I just finished a 10-year matrix for his retirement plan. That's going into the paper shredder next week." He's expected to spend the next two weeks throwing and working out, while Cohen assesses interest in his client from around the league, according to the LA Times. He's missed most of the past two seasons, so we should all temper our expectations for his return. It's not clear at this point for whome he might pitch, but it likely won't be as a closer at first.
Troy Percival, P, Tampa Bay RaysFriday 5/18, 10:14 AM CT
Troy Percival, who hasn't pitched in the big leagues since 2005 due to forearm injuries, is considering making a comeback. The former closer started throwing a month ago, according to the LA Times. "He wanted to see if he'd blow his arm out," agent Paul Cohen said. "He threw for a couple of days, and it didn't hurt. Then he threw for six days in a row with good velocity and good spin on his curve. He called me this week and said, 'I might want to try this.' He's leaning toward a comeback and is supposed to give me his final answer [today]."