The Phillies bench situation got a little bit clearer on Tuesday.  The Phillies released veteran infielder/outfielder Chris Coghlan.  Coughlan, a member of the 2016 World Champion Chicago Cubs, was one of a number of non-roster Phillies bench candidates on a crowded roster.

Coghlan went 9 for 39 for the Phillies in Grapefruit League action for a .231 batting average.  Coghlan appears to have fallen behind non-roster invitees Daniel Nava and Brock Stassi.  The Phillies may be able to carve out one, maybe two roster spots for bench players prior to the season, and Coghlan was just one too many.

Also up for consideration for a bench spot is Jesmuel Valentin.  Valentin is a member of the Phillies 40-man roster and has impressed in camp.  Valentin plays second base, shortstop, and is a switch hitter.  Valentin is batting .389 in Grapefruit League action.

With a strong track record, Coghlan very well could find a bench job in the Major Leagues for 2017.  Releasing Coghlan now gives him the opportunity to find a home before final roster decisions.  Coghlan is a lifetime .260 hitter over eight seasons with the Florida Marlins, Oakland Athletics, and Chicago Cubs.

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