DaytonDailyNews.com

SARASOTA, Fla. — The Cincinnati Reds have interest in outfielder Gary Sheffield and there probably will be a meeting with him and/or his representatives today at Ed Smith Stadium.

Sheffield, one shy of 500 home runs, was released this week by the Detroit Tigers. While he makes $14 million, the Reds could sign him for as little as the major-league minimum.

"Sheffield and (manager) Dusty Baker have a history and they talked yesterday," said Reds general manager Walt Jocketty. He has to clear waivers today, but we'll talk. We have interest because he would be a legitimate big right-handed bat to add to our lineup."

Sheffield's agent, Rufus Williams, confirmed the interest, although he said Sheffield has interest from other teams.

"Gary is a wonderful talent," said Williams. "His plan was not to stop playing after last year and to not stop playing after this year. The doors are open and teams have been contacting us expressing interest.

"We're willing to listen to all of them and looking to determine what's in Gary's best interest and what's in the best interest of the team he goes to," Williams added.

When asked if Baker and Sheffield had talked, Williams said, "Dusty doesn't lie to you, does he?

"Gary and Dusty have had a relationship for some time," Williams added. "The notion of playing for him would be an interesting one. There have been a lot of interesting possibilities and there probably will continue to be some until we get to the point where we can make a good decision.

"There's a reasonable timetable. Obviously, the season begins Sunday. We're challenged to be some place by then, and most challenged to be sure Gary's in the best situation," he said.

When he was released by the Tigers, Sheffield told writers, "I've got a lot left. I know that. If one person doesn't think you can play in the field, that's their opinion. I know I can. Nobody understands my body better than me.

"Unfortunately, I got hurt (with Detroit) and (have) never been able to show what I can really do. But I fought real hard to get back to this point. I just feel like I've got more to give."

Sheffield, 40, feels he can play every day and would like to prove it. He would only play left field for the Reds, a position being contested this spring between Chris Dickerson, Jerry Hairston Jr., Jonny Gomes and Laynce Nix.

"As many (games) as I need to play, I can play," said Sheffield. "I can go out there on an everyday basis and play in the outfield. That's what I yearn for. I want to be in the outfield."

"I wanted to play until I was 40, and I've accomplished that," he said. "I know I can still play this game. If somebody wants me, I'll be willing to look at the situation. Other than that, I'll stay home, play with my kids."

• COMMENT: Should the Reds sign Sheffield