Phillies Bring Torreyes Back on Minors Deal

An old friend is back with the Phillies.  But this time, the circumstances are much different for the Phillies.   With an offense-heavy lineup that tends to not be the strongest defense, the Phillies will likely look to the bench to protect some late-inning leads.

The Phillies announced Sunday that Ronald Torreyes has returned to the Phillies on a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training.

The versatile Torreyes appeared at games at second base, third base, shortstop, center field, and pitcher for the Phillies in 2021.  Torreyes also saw many at bats as a pinch hitter.  The pinch hitting role will be much less necessary in 2022.

With the designated hitter in the National League, the at bats that went to the bench when the pitcher's spot in the order are not a worry.  That means that Torreyes, should he make the club, would perhaps fill some late-inning defensive roles.

The Phillies bench will have room for four spots for non-regulars, with the fifth spot now going to the designated hitter.  Johan Camargo should be a lock for one of the spots, as would one go to a backup catcher.  Another will go to half of the center field platoon.

That means that one roster spot will come down to Torreyes, Luke Williams, Nick Maton, Scott Kingery, Adam Haseley or Mickey Moniak.

That is a lot of competition for one spot, but of course injuries always require more help.  Torreyes is signed to a minor league contract, so he could start 2022 at Triple-A.