After finishing last season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, left-handed reliever J.P. Howell is looking for a short-term deal and might have some contenders looking his way.

According to ESPN's Buster Olney, the 33-year-old is seeking a one-year pact, and the San Francisco Giants are among the teams that has shown interest.

The Giants agreed to a four-year, $62 million deal with free-agent closer Mark Melancon on Monday, sources told Olney, but they are likely still looking for more relief help after last year's disastrous results in that area.

ESPN's Jim Bowden writes that Howell could also be a good fit for the Tampa Bay Rays, Miami Marlins and New York Mets, who are also in need of bullpen depth.

Howell posted a 4.09 ERA with 44 strikeouts and a 1.44 WHIP last season.

-- Courtney Schellin