Phillies Taking a Look at Ryan Madson
ESPN's Jerry Crasnick reports that Ryan Madson hit 93 mph during an audition for teams Friday - one of the teams interested in Madson's service are the Phillies.
Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. recently admitted that the team has been keeping an eye on their former set-up man and closer.
The 33-year-old hasn't pitched in the majors since 2011 due to elbow problems, but he makes for a fine gamble assuming he's finally healthy on a minor league deal, with a spring training invite. In his last healthy season, Madson posted a sparkling 2.37 ERA with 32 saves in 2011.
Crasnick said there were "about 15 teams" in attendance and "multiple clubs" are expressing interest. The Phillies, Red Sox, and Royals are among the clubs who have been linked to Madson this offseason.
Madson will surely have to settle for a one-year "show me" deal and be used in a setup role.