The newest addition to the Rays family, acquired from San Diego for Big Russ Branyan, Evan Meek is if nothing else a low risk, high reward pitcher.
Originally drafted by the Twins as a draft and follow Meek lost his control and was released, later signed by the Padres. Here is an excerpt from an article of USA Today on Meek.
"By the end of instructional league, Meek's fastball was sitting at 94-95 mph and reaching 97, his slider was effective and he continued to show improvement with his changeup. "
For a player with 12 singles, and 12 homeruns, no real defensive value, and nothing of value (see Tomas Perez, pie throwing) this seems like a good trade off for the Rays. Add in the possible PTBNL or cash and it looks like Mr. Friedman pulled off another good deal for the boys in green. Also a side note concerning the roster spot, Durham 1b / DH Kevin Witt was called up to take Russ' 40 man and 25 man roster spot. ha