Two third basemen have signed contracts with teams other than the Phillies, limiting the team's options. First, Eric Chavez agreed to terms with the Arizona Diamondbacks on a one-year contract. Second, Jeff Keppinger agreed to terms with the Chicago White Sox on a three-year contract.
I had earlier hoped for the Phillies to sign Chavez, an idea that was later also held by three other Phillies blogs. He could have been a left-handed plattoon player with Kevin Frandsen on the right side. The Yankees had hoped to re-sign Chavez, but reports are that he wished to play on in Arizona.
Keppinger has a broken leg, but that did not prevent the White Sox from bringing him aboard. Keppinger's three-year deal has some Phillies ramifications. The White Sox were the Phillies' competition for the services of free agent Kevin Youkilis as the Phillies were said to be "hot on the trail" of Youkilis' services. With the White Sox out of the picture, the Phillies may have an easier time signing him.
The Indians are reportedly interested in Youkilis and met with his agent yesterday. Ken Rosenthal reported that the Indians offered free agent outfielder Shane Victorino a four-year contract worth $44 million, so the Indians have some money to spend. That could mean the price will be higher if the Phillies with to sign Youkilis.
With few options left for offense, Youkilis may be it. Keppinger is a nice player, Chavez would have helped, and the Indians want Youkilis. Maybe Frandsen and Galvis will have to do.
