Add the Braves and A’s to the list of teams interested in free-agent reliever Troy Percival. The Tigers, Phillies, Devil Rays and Giants also were present, according to major-league sources, and the Indians remain in the mix.
Percival, 37, is expected to take the next step in his comeback and sign with a major-league team by the end of this week.
With several contenders trying to replace injured late-inning relievers, the demand for Percival has only increased since he launched his comeback less than three weeks ago.
The Braves recently lost left-hander Mike Gonzalez, who underwent elbow-ligament transplant surgery and is out for the season.
The A’s currently are without both closer Huston Street, who has an irritated nerve in his throwing elbow, and setup man Justin Duchscherer, who has a right hip strain.
The Tigers, Percival’s most recent club, recently released right-hander Jose Mesa and are awaiting the return of right-hander Joel Zumaya, who is out until August after undergoing surgery to repair a ruptured tendon in his right middle finger.
The Giants recently traded their closer, Armando Benitez. The Phillies also need bullpen help — they’ve got two closers, right-handers Tom Gordon and Brett Myers, on the disabled list.
Percival saved Games 2, 6 and 7 of the 2002 World Series to help the Angels win their only Series title. His competitiveness and toughness made him a favorite of teammates.
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