Seth Vigdor
The Phillies announced yesterday they’ve signed outfielder, Will Venable, to a minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training. Yeah, that spring training that’s almost over. Like tomorrow.
Venable opted out of his contract with the Cleveland Indians over the weekend. The left-handed hitter can play all three outfield positions.
#Phillies have signed OF Will Venable to a minor league contract with an invitation to attend major league spring training.
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) March 28, 2016
Venable’s best season was 2013, when he hit .268 with 22 homers and 53 RBIs for the Padres. Venable is also considered to be a great baserunner, with 135 steals over 166 career attempts. This move shouldn’t come as a shock to anyone as ESPN’s Jayson Starks recently reported that the Phillies were definitely looking for some help in the outfield, especially with the long-term injury to Aaron Altherr.