"As expected, Gary Sheffield cleared waivers Thursday, and his agent had another conversation with Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr.

But there weren't any indications that a deal may be imminent. Rufus Williams, Sheffield's Chicago-based agent, said several teams have shown interest in the 40-year-old slugger.

Williams said "playing is important" to Sheffield, who has no reservations about playing the outfield after spending most of the past two seasons as a designated hitter with the Detroit Tigers.

But the Phillies would use Sheffield primarily as a right-handed pinch-hitter.

The Cincinnati Reds view Sheffield in a similar role and also planned to speak with him Thursday.

"We're not ruling anything out at the moment," Williams said by phone. "As the cycle goes through, (coming off the bench) might be the place we've reached. But Gary is still talented and extremely versatile. He's injury-free, and he's in great shape."

Asked if Sheffield would be open to a bench job, Williams said, "It depends on the team. He wants to go to a team that will give him an opportunity."

Sheffield, who is one home run shy of 500, was released Tuesday by the Tigers after batting .178 in spring training."