Late last week, Major League sources confirmed to Jim Salisbury of CSNPilly.com that the Philadelphia Phillies are looking for infield help. And who can blame them?
Chase Utley hasn't played in a game yet this spring because of a chronic knee problem, Placido Polanco, has a history of injuries, and recently left a game on Saturday because he jammed his finger, backup infielder Michael Martinez has a bruised elbow, and of course, Ryan Howard is out until late-May/early-June.
The Phillies are thinner in their infield than Calista Flockhart was on Ally McBeal.
Philadelphia does have Ty Wigginton who can play third and first, but his defense is nonexistent and they also have Jim Thome, but he hasn't played first since Moses was wearing short pants. John Mayberry Jr. is expected to help out at first as well, but he is an outfielder.
The Phillies aren't an organization that just sits around waiting for things to happen and it wouldn't shock me if they acquired someone right before the season started. Let's take a look at some of their options...
Mike Aviles, Boston Red Sox: The Red Sox have three players -- Aviles, Nick Punto, and Jose Iglesias -- for one spot in their infield. Aviles is the best hitter of this group and can play SS, 2B, and 3B. Moving Aviles would allow Boston to move Iglesias into the starting SS job.
Cristian Guzman, Cleveland Indians: Guzman's career is hanging on by a thread, but he is familiar with the National League East from his days with the Washington Nationals and can play short and second. Plus, he wouldn't cost the Phillies much if anything.
Eric Sogard, Oakland A's: Sogard can play third and short and doesn't seem to fit into the A's long-term plans.
Omar Vizquel, Toronto Blue Jays: Vizquel is trying to make the Blue Jays' roster out of spring training and he is doing a pretty job of making his case. The veteran is hitting .400 through his first 20 AB's this spring. He would be a nice addition to the Phillies if the Blue Jays want to move him or don't keep him.
John McDonald, Arizona Diamondbacks: The Diamondbacks have a very crowded infield with Aaron Hill, Ryan Roberts, and Willie Bloomquist on board and they will add Stephen Drew in late-April. It looks like will be the odd-man out and he can play SS, 2B, and 3B.
Mark Teahen, Washington Nationals: Teahan was recently assigned to the Nationals' minor league camp and his once promising career looks to be coming to an end. He might have something left in the tank and he can play 1B, 3B, and the outfield.
If the Phillies want to make a move, they certainly can. There are some good backup middle infielders available to help the Phillies get through these injuries.