There aren't many jobs up for grabs in Phillies camp, so those of us who cover the team are looking for any hint, subtle as it may be, to discern what the coaching staff and front office may be thinking about the open spots. One sign may have come this morning, during a voluntary workout for position players. IF/OF Greg Dobbs (left), claimed off waivers last month from the Mariners, is a candidate for the final bench spot. But Dobbs participated with minor leaguers Brent Abernathy and Brennan King in the second round of infield practice, after regulars Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Abraham Nunez and Wes Helms.
Later, the outfielders ran in a tandem formation that seemed to indicate a pecking order. The first two pairs were Pat Burrell/Aaron Rowand and Shane Victorino/Jayson Werth. Karim Garcia, vying for a spot with Dobbs, ran solo. Dobbs was paired with Michael Bourn, who probably will open the season with triple-A Ottawa. Behind them were minor leaguers Chris Roberson, Ron Calloway, Greg Golson and Lou Collier.
Of course, none of that may mean anything. But, for now, Dobbs may want to buy some warm clothes. Ottawa is still cold in April.
2 comments:
I'm extremely interested to read your reports on Dobbs. We hardly know who he is, let alone what he can do on the field. Knowing he's a Gillick pick from his Seattle days, do you think he's got a leg up on that bench spot already?
Paul: Charlie Manuel spoke highly of Dobbs after watching him hit live pitching on Thursday. I don't think Gillick's familiarity with Dobbs gives him a leg up. At least no more than Manuel's fondness for Chris Coste gives him an advantage. I still think Coste and Karim Garcia will make the team, leaving Dobbs as the odd-man out. But there's still a LONG way to go in spring training.
Thanks, as always, for the note.
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