Or, he may not.

"Our method is to rush slowly," Sheffield's agent, Rufus Williams, told FOXSports.com Thursday shortly after noon ET.

"We're not challenged by the absolute need to be on an Opening Day roster. We're challenged by whether it's the right fit for Gary."

Reds manager Dusty Baker and general manager Walt Jocketty are expected to meet with Sheffield after he clears waivers Thursday.

The Phillies also have made their interest in Sheffield clear — they, too, want him as a right-handed hitter off the bench.

Williams said "several" other teams are interested, including at least one in the American League.

"This is a good one," Wiliams said. "Gary's a hot commodity. To have someone of this caliber come available at this time creates wonderful opportunities for most teams."

Sheffield, one home run short of 500, was released by the Tigers on Tuesday after he batted only .178 in spring training.

He will cost his new team only the $400,000 minimum or a pro-rated portion of it, with the Tigers assuming the rest of his $14 million salary.