The Phillies sent Jason Donald down to minor league camp yesterday. Story from Todd Zolecki
This was bound to happen with both Feliz and Utley showing signs that they’re going to be well enough to play Opening Night.
Donald is definitely a top prospect in the organization and it would be a better fit for him to play every day in Lehigh Valley. He has been playing a lot with J-Roll in the WBC, but now that Rollins is coming back, he wasn’t going to see the field enough. He’ll play every day in Lehigh Valley, which would be the best thing for him at this time in his career.
He’ll be back with the team at some point. He’s definitely a major league caliber player.
Miguel Cairo looks to be the favorite for a bench spot if the Phillies decide they need one. I thought Giles was going to be the 25th man, but it looks like Cairo has overtaken him for the spot.
Charlie Manuel on Cairo:
“I think he can play all the positions, I think he’s a good utility player. His bat is starting to show up. He’s starting to come on big with his bat. I think that’s a big plus for him.”
-And now for the requisite Cole Hamels update, also from Zo.
It now looks like Hamels is targeted for the fourth game of the season. There’s a small chance he could still pitch Opening Night, but it’s looking more and more like the team is targeting April 10th against the Rockies as Hamels’ debut.
-KK
