Carlos Pena called from the Dominican Republic on Monday to say he, too, is waiting to hear about the status of contract negotiations with the Rays. Pena is eligible for arbitartion so he'll be with the Rays in 2008 but the question is how much he'll make and for how long he'll sign.
Pena said several "possibilities" remain "on the table" as far as whether he signs for one season or signs a multiyear deal. Agent Scott Boras has spoken with executive VP Andrew Friedman several times but it sounds like the major negotiating is still to come.
The Rays have a policy to cease negotiations and proceed to a hearing if they don't have a deal by the deadline to exchange figures, which this year is Friday.
Pena - the team MVP and consenus AL Comeback Player of the Year - is working out in the Dominican and said he is feeling great and is eager and excited for the start of the season.
In the meantime, he is waiting to hear about his contract. Boras said in September that Pena was having a "$15-million" season, but realistically he is more likely to make somewhere between $4.5- and $7.5-million for next season.
For now, Pena is waiting to hear something.
"Hopefully soon,'' he said.
Joe Maddon, Johnny Damon and Evan Longoria are only some of the Rays you'll meet through our new video interview series. Don't see your favorite player yet? Check back often, as we'll add to the series as the season progresses.
