Call to the pen
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Phillies: Roster-roulette players

By Tal Venada

CLEARWATER, FL - MARCH 07: Former Phillies legends Larry Bowa, Charlie Manuel and Mike Schmidt catch up during the spring training game between the Boston Red Sox and the Philadelphia Phillies on March 07, 2018, at Spectrum Field in Clearwater, FL. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
CLEARWATER, FL - MARCH 07: Former Phillies legends Larry Bowa, Charlie Manuel and Mike Schmidt catch up during the spring training game between the Boston Red Sox and the Philadelphia Phillies on March 07, 2018, at Spectrum Field in Clearwater, FL. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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Leiter is the leading candidate for the eighth bullpen seat. Photo by Mike McGinnis/Getty Images. /

Offensive reserves:

Until the inking of Arrieta, Knapp looked like the odd man out because Rupp had re-signed for $2.05 million. Now, Knapp can start against tough right-handed pitchers and be another left-side bat in the dugout for the late frames.

For Tommy Joseph, however, his designated-for-assignment status means another franchise can claim him. Otherwise, he will pass through waivers and the locals will send him to the Allentown affiliate.

Because of his steady glove at third base, shortstop and center field, Florimon will probably make the 25-man roster. And if he can provide the offense he did last summer, he won’t make it easy for an IronPig to supplant him: .348 for 49 plate appearances over 15 contests.

By June 1, the locals will be anticipating Kingery’s arrival, and the left side of the infield will face competition for playing time. Yes, the highly touted prospect will replace one reserve if no one is on the DL. A huge if!

"WORTH REPEATING: “I think it’s really important to look at the big picture instead of just one competition.” – Shannon Miller"

On the other hand, cutting Joseph indicates Klentak’s strategy regarding the 25-man roster for Opening Day. The eight regulars, a fourth outfielder (Williams or Altherr), Rupp, Florimon, and Knapp have 12 spots. Yes, a long reliever is a strong possibility. Or Kingery?

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