Spring Training Update: Freddy Galvis Plays Left Field, Hits Home Runs

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When the Phillies parted ways with Yuniesky Betancourt and
his career .290 on-base percentage (much to many fans’ delight we’re sure),
that more or less solidified a roster spot for Freddy Galvis. You may remember
him from such roles as 2012 Opening Day starter at second base, but today
Galvis is here to talk about playing in the outfield.

Galvis has already flashed Gold Glove potential at second
and shortstop, but recently the 23 year old has been getting some experience in
left,
perhaps so Charlie Manuel can find ways to maximize his playing time this
season. A few weeks back Manuel told reporters he thought Galvis would be more
valuable to the big club
than in the minors.

“Freddy’s a tremendous ballplayer,” Manuel said earlier in
camp. “I think he can help us more getting 250 at-bats in the majors than 450
in the minors.”

Unless somebody gets hurt, Manuel might have to get creative
to get him that many. Chase Utley looks healthy and has been absolutely mashing
the baseball, and Jimmy Rollins is Jimmy Rollins. Jim Salisbury suggested some
looks at third base are is even a possibility, but that could mostly be as a
defensive substitute for Michael Young or Kevin Frandsen.

It’s not hard to understand why management wants Galvis to
get to the dish though. He filled in admirably for Utley last year after
basically skipping Triple-A before a back injury and 50-game suspension cost
him the rest of the season. This spring, Galvis is hitting .293 with 10
extra-base hits and 9 RBI.

Why just today in his second outfield appearance, Galvis hit
his third bomb of the year. If he can continue to grow at the plate, and with
that kind of versatility, Galvis could be a real weapon for the Phillies this
season.

>>> VIDEO: Galvis' two-run homer [MLB]

>> Galvis Diversifies Portfolio [High Cheese]

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