It looks more and more like Jeff Shaw could return to the Reds. If that happens, look for the Reds to move closer Danny Graves into the starting rotation.

Dodgers reliever Jeff Shaw (AP photo) | ZOOM |

        Shaw's agent, Joe Bick, met with Reds general manager Jim Bowden Tuesday and gave the Reds a contract proposal.

        It was below market value and included deferred money.

        “We tried to be creative,” Bick said.

        “They are very conscious of our financial situation,” Bowden said. “That he's willing to come here for less makes a strong statement.”

        Neither Bick nor Bowden would discuss specifics of the proposal. But Shaw is willing to take a one-year deal. Even at a discounted rate, Shaw, who made $6.05 million in 2001, would be relatively expensive given the Reds' tight payroll situation. Their player payroll was about $42million last season. No one will say if the number for this year has been set, but it's unlikely to be much more than last year's.

        So if the Reds make the investment in Shaw, it's likely to be as the closer.

        “That's something we would have to discuss internally,” Bowden said. “With guys like Danny Graves and Scott Williamson, you want to keep an open mind. Nothing is set in stone.”

        Shaw, 36, had 43 saves in 52 opportunities for the Dodgers last year.

        “He had a good year,” Bowden said. “He had one rough stretch in August. But overall he pitched extremely well.”

        Shaw lives in Washington Court House, Ohio. He commuted from there during his three years with the Reds.

        “Looking back over the last 10 or 15 years,” Bick said, “no one enjoyed their time with the Reds more than Jeff. He loves (bullpen coach) Tom Hume. He credits (former Red) Jeff Brantley and (pitching coach) Don Gullett with turning his career around.

        “Jeff would love the opportunity to finish his career with the Reds — whether that be a year, two years or three years.”

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