Philadelphia Phillies: 8 players to keep an eye on during Spring Training
By David Esser
![LAKELAND, FL - MARCH 05: Matt Moore #51 of the Detroit Tigers pitches during the Spring Training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium on March 5, 2019 in Lakeland, Florida. The Blue Jays defeated the Tigers 5-2. (Photo by Mark Cunningham/MLB photos via Getty Images) LAKELAND, FL - MARCH 05: Matt Moore #51 of the Detroit Tigers pitches during the Spring Training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium on March 5, 2019 in Lakeland, Florida. The Blue Jays defeated the Tigers 5-2. (Photo by Mark Cunningham/MLB photos via Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/f8f10d84a653dc0d7dc3885494a61d67591a63e7b7273e0a8e6da587019bc89a.jpg)
C.J. Chatham, INF
Even with the return of Didi Gregorius, the Philadelphia Phillies are going to have to find themselves a reliable middle infielder to rotate in on occasion. While the team has expressed interest in the likes of free agents Marwin Gonzalez and Brad Miller, another option acquired via trade earlier this offseason could get an honest look during Spring Training.
A 26 year old who hasn’t played above AAA yet, Dombrowski went out of his away to acquire C.J. Chatham earlier this offseason. Seeing as Chatham and Dombrowski overlapped when Dave was president of the Red Sox, the thought process here is that Dombrowski has an above average opinion of the infielder.
Chatham can play shortstop, second base, and third base – providing the Phillies with the versatility that they’re seeking off the bench. That type of role was filled by Phil Gosselin last year, who is now playing in the LA Angels system.
While the Phillies will still likely add some semblance of a veteran infielder to their roster, Chatham is a name worth keeping an eye on this spring. Dombrowski liked him enough to bring him to Philadelphia, which means he could end up getting an extended look during camp.