In what might be the biggest Philadelphia sports news story of the week, the Phillies added some infield depth to their Spring Training camp on Wednesday. Jerry Crasnick of ESPN is reporting that the Phillies have added utility player Ryan Flaherty to the mix on a minor league deal. Flaherty will head to Phillies Spring Training and compete for a spot on the bench.
Flaherty has never been much of a hitter, with a lifetime .215 batting average on his baseball card. However, Flaherty can play all over the diamond, something which could make him attractive for a bench. Defensively, Flaherty has played first base, second base, shortstop, third base, left field and right field, along with an appearance at pitcher in 2017.
Flaherty was somewhat of a fan favorite in Baltimore over the last six seasons. Since Phillies president Andy MacPhail and general manager Matt Klentak were with Baltimore when Flaherty rose through the Orioles system, they may be looking to give a guy a chance to show he can win a job. He will face competition from the likes of Adam Rosales, Pedro Florimon and Jesmuel Valentin.
Pitchers and catchers report to Phillies Spring Training one week from today.
