Phillies’ Unique Backup Plan
By Tal Venada
Playing time:
If you remember last year’s camp, Brock Stassi and Daniel Nava made the club when it seemed Jesmuel Valentin would be a backup infielder. But first, sacker Stassi was on the active 25 as a left fielder. Translation: Klentak’s move!
As for Jorge Alfaro, he will receive the lion’s share behind the plate. Typically, a catching tandem is a “100 to 60 start” split. So, Alfaro will probably be in the batting order for roughly 90 contests.
On the other hand, Rupp’s experience will help Alfaro with the pitching staff, and the veteran will handle starters in a blue funk. That stated, 40 games with four at-bats apiece should keep him sharp enough to be a right-side hitter off the bench.
Being a switch-hitter, Knapp will receive the assignment against tough right-handers like the front two of the New York Mets’ rotation. Kapler will also pencil Knapp into the lineup roughly 30 times, and he’ll be the best left-handed pinch hitter when Nick Williams starts.
Although Joseph will only have 25 starts to Carlos Santana‘s 137, the former regular will be the primary bat off the pine after Aaron Altherr or Williams. The first sacker will pinch-hit against southpaws and challenging right-handers.
When it comes to injuries requiring a disabled-list stint or four days to heal, the first baseman and two backstops will be productive with those precious opportunities. And if a regular goes into a slump, he can take a dugout seat to clear his head. A day off works also.
While many locals have been wondering about Rupp, Joseph and Knapp, all their comments have been about trades or returning to the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Yes, all three have options but will be worth keeping an eye on during spring training. The answer to who goes is none!
Barring a decent trade offer, injury or an unforeseen event, the Phillies will keep Joseph, Rupp, and Knapp in red pinstripes. But if you aren’t sure of that, remember this word? Stassi!