Tuffy Rhodes in 2010?

The Buffaloes have announced that they are not going to extend a contract to Tuffy. The Japanese press had said that they'd tried to get in contact with him a number of times over the off season, but finally gave up trying and are banking on Taguchi.

I haven't seen any rumors of anyone else interested. But he is approaching some interesting milestones, making for a good marketing opportunity should anyone want to pursue it.

Still technically a free agent I guess. Haven't heard anything to suggest that he's officially retiring or that another team has interest.

Don't know why Seibu didn't at least kick the tires on Tuffy. He could've brought in a lot in terms of attendance and merchandise sales IMHO.

I read where Tuffy Rhodes wanted to re-sign with Orix, but after signing So Taguchi Orix had no interest in Rhodes. If this is true, then Orix once again shows what a group of idiots they are. Tuffy was killing the ball last year before he got hit by a pitch. Taguchi is only 8 months younger and has never come close to the the seasons Tuffy has put together. Taguchi was an average to good player. Tuffy was great.

The Buffaloes have no one who can replace Tuffy's production. T. Okada has potential, but hasn't done anything. Baldiris did nothing at the top level. Shimoyama, Hamanaka and Taguchi are average. Looks like last place again. The front office deserves it.

Orix front office said that players (Tuffy Rhodes ) who are defensive liabilities won't be in their plans. I didn't know DH's had to play defense. Good Orix, it's easy to find guys who hit 40 homers and drive in 100 RBI's.

Is he done then? I've been out of town and haven't seen anything about Ol' Tuff. This will be sadder than Tyrone Woods getting cut for me. Tuffy put in work.

Wow, if Tuffy doesn't sign back with the B's, I cringe at where he might wind up, dare I say... the BayStars? Hehe. Either way I just hope he's in PYS2010.

If even Orix considered him a defensive liability, it's highly doubtful that any CL team (without the DH) would consider him. Too bad as I also would like to see him play this year. He can obviously still hit, but we probably have to consider a substantial pay cut to play anywhere.

I realize that this is an old thread, but I just need to add this.

In this interview [Baseball Happenings] done a few days ago, Rhodes indicated his plans for 2010 and beyond.

It's pretty sad nobody took a flyer on him this offseason. He was absolutely destroying the ball before his injury last season. He had, what, 12 HRs in April?