Rays Notes: Scott’s Rehab, Sutton Back in Pittsburgh, Rays Sign NDFA Epperson

Luke Scott is eligible to come off the DL now after missing time with back spasms, but as Marc Topkin tweeted, Scott is going to play 2 rehab games at Triple-A Durham before the Rays make a decision about whether he’s ready to return. The Rays could always use more powerful bats and they’ll be very happy when Scott can return to their lineup.

On May 20th, 2012, Drew Sutton was traded from the Atlanta Braves to the Pittsburgh Pirates for cash considerations. Less than 24 hours later, Sutton was traded to the Rays for cash considerations. Sutton played 18 games with the Rays, posting a decent .271/.314/.354 line while playing third base, second base, and first base, but now that his time is up with Jeff Keppinger back from the DL, Sutton will finally go to Pittsburgh. Sutton had some big hits and great defensive plays during his brief time in Tampa Bay, and good luck to him with the Pirates.

And finally, I missed an undrafted free agent, outfielder Charles Epperson out of Jackson State University. Epperson, 6’2″, 205, will turn 22 on June 30th. Epperson had a solid season for JSU in 2012, posting a .314/.359/.436 line with 7 doubles, 2 triples, 4 homers, 36 RBI, and 8 of 13 in stolen bases in 49 games. He struck out 31 times versus 11 walks. Epperson is an athletic outfielder with good speed and a little pop and the Rays liked his work ethic, specifically his hustle.