The Rays are in serious discussions to sign free-agent OF Cliff Floyd, a source familiar with the negotiations confirmed this evening.

Tampa Bay, seeking a left-handed bat who can play outfield as well as be plugged into the DH spot, could sign Floyd by this weekend.

The crop of left-handed hitting outfielders shrunk earlier today when Astros OF Luke Scott, another Rays target, was one of five players traded to Baltimore in exchange for All-Star SS Miguel Tejada.

The 35-year-old Floyd, who became a free agent in November when the Cubs declined his $5 million option for 2008, has a history of injury problems and has played in more than 113 games just one of his past five seasons. But the Rays believe including him in a three-pronged RF/DH platoon with Jonny Gomes and Rocco Baldelli, would limit his wear and he can remain healthy. Floyd has spent most of his 13-year career in the NL, so he's been forced to play the field. 

He hit a respectable .284 last season in 108 games with the Cubs, and also had a .373 on-base percentage, showing he has the plate discipline that the Rays are looking for. He would also add a veteran presence and provide leadership to a young Tampa Bay clubhouse, much like recent addition Troy Percival.