Friday, March 28, 2008

Snelling on waivers, Phillies interested in Freel?

Another roster move, and a confusing rumor as we approach Opening Day:

*Chris Snelling placed on waivers It appears that Wes Helms has won the last bench spot over Chris Snelling, who was subsequently waived. Snelling can't be sent to the minors until he clears waivers, so right now he is up for grabs. There are plenty of teams that are looking for outfield depth, so I would expect Snelling to get claimed.

*Phillies interested in Ryan Freel? Here is a rumor that makes very little sense, from MLBTraderumors.com. The Reds have been shopping Ryan Freel all spring, and it appears that the Phillies, along with the Twins, are showing interest in acquiring the versatile Freel, who can play second, third and all three outfield positions. I would be all for the Phillies getting Freel, a hustle guy who steals a ton of bases. Unfortunately, there is nowhere for him to play. The Phillies are set in the infield, and they just waived Snelling, which still leaves them with five outfielders. Freel would be an upgrade over someone like So Taguchi, but I just can't see Pat Gillick making a move for a player that has no position to play. Also, the Reds likely want pitching for Freel, and the Phils aren't exactly stacked in that department.

There are still rumors circulating that the Phillies are trying to find a taker for Wes Helms, with the Giants still in the mix. I don't have high hopes that Gillick will find a taker.

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