Rafael Palmeiro will have at least one teammate in his corner when he takes the next step in his against-the-odds comeback at age 54.
His son.
Palmeiro said Tuesday night that he had agreed to play for the Cleburne Railroaders of the independent American Association where he will team with his oldest son, Patrick. Cleburne is scheduled to open it's season on May 18 against the Winnipeg Gold Eyes.
"I'm looking forward to it," Palmeiro said via text on Tuesday. "Nobody gave me a chance to go to spring training, so I will just take this path."
Palmeiro announced over the winter that he intended to make a comeback _ nearly 13 years after his last major league at-bat _ and wanted to do it with the Rangers. The Rangers declined to meet with him about the possibility.
Palmeiro last played in the majors in 2005 with Baltimore, but was suspended for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs. His only other playing experience since then was a one-game cameo with Sugar Land Skeeters, also an independent team, in 2015. He also played alongside Patrick. The elder Palmeiro went 2-for-4 in his lone game.
"I just know that I want to compete at the highest level, to contribute to a team and to contribute in other areas as well," Palmeiro told the Morning News in January about his comeback attempt. "I believe I have a lot to offer. I don't know what it will do for my career, but how much more can my career be damaged at this point? I'm not sure there is much more for me to lose. But I do think there is something to be gained and not just for myself. I believe it could be a win-win."
He initially balked at the idea of playing in a foreign or independent league, seeking instead an invitation to a major-league spring training camp.
His feelings have apparently changed. At least he will have the support of one important teammate.
