Former Twins designated hitter Jim Thome is headed to the Phillies on a one-year deal worth $1.25 million, and now there are reports out of Philadelphia that the club is also interested in Michael Cuddyer.
Thome, at his introductory press conference on Saturday, was asked about his relationship with Cuddyer and if Cuddyer has any interest in playing in Philadelphia.
Here’s what he had to say:
(Have you talked to Cuddyer?)
We’ve texted a little bit. We’ve talked. All I can say about Michael is he’s a great player. He’s a winner. He’s a stand-up guy. I know he’s done a lot of great things on and off the field in Minnesota. Anybody that plays in that organization for a long time, their credibility is instantly high. Any team that gets him is going to gain. He’s a great teammate. I would put Michael as one of my top-five, all-time favorite teammates. No question. He’s up there. He’s a winner.
(Does he have any interest in Philly?)
I can’t answer that. Look, every player that sees the way the Phillies have done things over the last seven or eight years, they’ve set the bar very, very high. Guys around baseball would love to come here. When you win, you create a lot of good things.
(He didn’t say he’d like to join you?)
He did not.
(Did you encourage him to do that?)
I could, yes. Absolutely. I’m sure we will talk going forward.
