Bottlenecked Spots on the Phillies

When it comes to coverage, the Philadelphia Phillies don’t need a fourth infielder for third base. The club has a second sacker who can play short, a shortstop who can handle second and third, and Blanco covers all four infield positions. So, a fourth middle infielder already on the 40-man roster is the logical choice. Ergo, Valentin.

While the locals enjoyed the exhibition contest, they also discussed the reserve outfielders: Aaron Altherr, Daniel Nava, Chris Coghlan and Tyler Goeddel. Hey, you forgot Brock Stassi. Isn’t he a first baseman? Well, they’re playing him in left field too.

"FOOD FOR THOUGHT:           “I was such a dangerous hitter I even got intentional walks during batting practice.” – Casey Stengel"

If only Altherr is manning center field while Odubel Herrera is at the 2017 World Baseball Classic, Altherr’s the fourth outfielder. He’s on the 40-man roster and can field all three positions. Basically, Goeddel needs at least one full year with the IronPigs to earn another opportunity in the major leagues. For the final spot, however, Nava is a switch-hitter, Coghlan is a pesky foe, and Stassi is a left-handed bat with some power.