The pitching-poor Padres have inquired about both candiates for the Rays fifth starter's job, Jason Hammel and Jeff Niemann, which could be a reason the Rays are holding off on making a decision.

But reports regarding Niemann in the San Diego Union-Tribune  that the Rays have inquired about prospects Simon Castro, Wynn Pelzer, Juedy Valdez and Nick Schmidt, and that the Padres have "deemed the price too high" are not true, the Times has learned.

Both Hammel and Niemann are out of options, and it makes sense for the Rays to explore trade options since they have two other candidates for the remaining spot in the bullpen in Lance Cormier and Jason Isringhausen.

- MARC TOPKIN