Freddy Galvis took over right field after Domonic Brown batted in the sixth inning
So we were just wondering who might be the Phillies' fifth outfielder especially now that both Darin Ruf and Jermaine Mitchell were sent to the minor leagues. The only other outfield candidate that is currently on the roster seemed to be a candidate was Ender Inciarte, the Phillies Rule 5 pick who may be returned to the Diamondbacks if the Phillies do not decide to keep him. The Phillies also may be shopping for some outfield help. The Phillies showed today that they are considering one more possibility: Freddy Galvis.
After Domonic Brown had his fourth at bat of the day Phillies Manager Charlie Manuel decided to replace him with infielder Freddy Galvis. Almost immediately Galvis was put to the test in right field. He had to play a ball dropped by center fielder Ender Inciarte that he had to recover. Then, with Brian Roberts on third base, Chris Davis flew out to right field. Galvis' throw to home plate was enough to keep the speedy Roberts at third base.
The issue perhaps is that shortshop Yuniesky Betancourt, having a fine Spring Training, faces a deadline tomorrow. The Phillies must either add him to the roster or he will become a free agent. Betancourt helped remind the Phillies Saturday that he could be productive by hitting a home run in the sixth inning. With the open roster spot thanks to the injury to Delmon Young, the Phillies can be creative and carry the extra infielder.
Getting Freddy Galvis some time in the outfield would help give the Phillies a right-handed bat off of the bench in Betancourt. As the fifth option in the outfield, Galvis would only need to play in an emergency. Revere and Brown will start alongside either Nix or Mayberry. Should any outfielder go down or be switched out during the course of a game Nix or Mayberry will remain. Then if there is a situation beyond that requiring an outfielder, Galvis could jump in.
Kevin Frandsen could also play some outfield in a pinch. If he did it would not be the first time in his career. Frandsen has 14 career appearances in the outfield during his major league career. Having the two of them as outfield options in a pinch would not hurt the Phillies. Both can hit right-handed which could be an added bonus over lefty Ender Inciarte.
Kevin Frandsen and Freddy Galvis have both showed that they are capable backup infielders and deserve the opportunity to be on the roster. Yuneisky Betancourt has showed the Phillies that he has something. The Phillies could carry all three and be just fine for now. When Delmon Young returns, then the Phillies can make a decision.
The only downside for Galvis to this arrangement: if Young returns, only Galvis can be sent to the minor leagues.
