Cameron Rupp could be the Phillies backup backstop in 2015
This offseason the Phillies subtracted their starting shortstop in Jimmy Rollins and backup catcher in Wil Nieves. Rollins was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers and Nieves signed with the San Diego Padres. Neither player has really been replaced; the Phillies have made no major league acquisitions in the infield or behind the plate.
Jayson Stark of ESPN reported today that the Phillies could add depth later.
In lower-level #Phillies news, Ruben Amaro told me he doesn't plan to add a veteran SS or C before camp but could deal for both this spring
— Jayson Stark (@jaysonst) February 10, 2015
The reason could be that Amaro has better things to do.
The Phillies remain engaged on dealing with bigger picture issues, such as dealing some of their remaining veterans for young assets that could be part of a later group. While the Phillies are rebuilding, it really does not matter who mans these particular roles. Plus, this leaves the Phillies with some flexibility on the major league roster should there be any players coming back from such trades.
Until that happens, Cameron Rupp figures to be the Phillies backup catcher going into 2015. Rupp can be optioned to the minor leagues, which will give the Phillies some flexibility down the line. Rupp is a solid catcher but did not have a good year with the bat at either AAA or the majors in 2014. Rupp batted just .165 for AAA Lehigh Valley and .183 for the major league club.
At shortstop, Freddy Galvis presumably will get the opportunity to start. Rule 5 pick Odubel Herrera was once a shortstop but was moved away from the position because he was not too strong defensively. The Phillies plan to use Herrera as an outfielder.
The only other player with shortstop experience on the roster is Cesar Hernandez. Hernandez is a natural second baseman who has never had the opportunity at the major league level to play it, given Chase Utley's permanent place on the Phillies roster. Hernandez played four games at shortstop last season, including two starts. Hernandez did play some shortstop at AAA Lehigh Valley and in the Venezuelan winter league, and could conceivably start if he shows this Spring that he has mastered the position.
Also in camp will be Andres Blanco, who spent time with the Phillies last year. In camp on a minor league deal, there are no guarantees that Blanco will make the roster. But, with the need for multiple backup infielders, he has a shot. Blanco cannot be sent to the minor leagues, so the Phillies may wish to stash him in AAA in case of an emergency.
