Mon 12/5/11 4:11 PM

Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com reports that the Rays are making a "serious run" at free agent outfielder Josh Willingham. FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal confirms that Tampa is in the running, saying that they're not close to a deal but are among the 3-4 finalists for Willingham's services. The 32-year-old outfielder posted a .246/.332/.477 batting line with 29 homers and 98 RBI in 136 games this past year for the A's and is one of the more steady, capable bats on the market. He should have no trouble netting a multi-year deal.