Texas Rangers Claim Former Phillies 1B Tommy Joseph

When the Phillies added pitcher Jake Arrieta, they would have to make room on the 40-man roster, at that point full.  The roster casualty would be first baseman Tommy Joseph.  With no clear place on the roster, the Phillies designated Joseph's contract for assignment.  Word came on Monday afternoon that Joseph had been claimed.

The Texas Rangers announced that they have been awarded the claim they made on Joseph's contract.  Joseph joins the Rangers 40-man roster, which has room thanks to moving pitcher Clayton Blackburn to the 60-day disabled list.  Joseph will report to Rangers Spring Training in Arizona.

The Rangers have Joey Gallo as their regular first baseman in 2018.  However, Gallo has fallen short of expectations and could possibly be complimented by the right-handed Joseph.  Joseph could also potentially see some action at designated hitter, where Shin Soo-Choo figures to get most of the at bats.

Joseph's contract does have one option remaining, so he may be sent to Triple-A, if the Rangers so choose.