Utility player Pedro Florimon was a good backup for the Phillies in 2017, so they brought him back for 2018.  Unfortunately, the injury bug bit Florimon.  The switch-hitter was limited to 50 games and batted just .225 in his time with the big club.  The Phillies decided to open a 40-man spot and it involved Florimon.

The Phillies announced that they have outrighted the contract of Florimon to Triple-A Lehigh Valley.   Florimon has the right to reject that assignment and declare free agency.  That is a strong possibility, as the Phillies are ripe with infielders and may not have a spot for him in 2019.

Also not returning could be Jesmuel Valentin.  Valentin has amassed enough service that he will be a minor league free agent.  Valentin was the replacement for Florimon in early 2018.  Valentin batted .177 for the Phillies and was ultimately outrighted to Triple-A in early September.

In terms of non-first base infielders on the roster, the Phillies have third baseman Maikel Franco, shortstop J.P. Crawford, second basemen Scott Kingery and Cesar Hernandez along with third baseman Mitch Walding still on the roster.  Carlos Santana could factor into the team's third baseman plans, depending on what other moves they make.

The Phillies 40-man roster now sits at 35.

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