FORT MYERS, Fla. – Tommy Joseph’s Phillies career ended Monday when he was claimed off waivers by the Texas Rangers.
More Phillies coverage
The Phillies had designated Joseph for assignment last week to clear a space on their 40-man roster for Jake Arrieta. Joseph came to spring training without a role on the team after Rhys Hoskins emerged last season and the Phillies signed Carlos Santana this winter to play first base. Joseph’s roster spot always felt in jeopardy.
Joseph could find a place in the American League as a designated hitter. He has hit 43 homers over the last two seasons with a .757 OPS. Joseph played some left field and third base this spring but will likely stay at first base. The Rangers have Shin-Soo Choo as their designated hitter and Joey Gallo at first base.
Choo, 35, has underperformed and is in the fifth year of a seven-year contract. Gallo hit 41 homers last season but struggled against lefthanded pitching. Perhaps Joseph could be used in a platoon if he makes the opening-day roster.
More Coverage
- POLL: Which Philly sports team will be the next to play for its league’s championship?
- Get the latest Phillies news with the FREE Philly Sports Now app for iPhone and Android
- Phillies 2017 statistics
- SHOP SALE: Phillies fan gear
Comment policy:
Philly.com comments are intended to be civil, friendly conversations. Please treat other participants with respect and in a way that you would want to be treated. You are responsible for what you say. And please, stay on topic. If you see an objectionable post, please report it to us using the "Report Abuse" option.
Please note that comments are monitored by Philly.com staff. We reserve the right at all times to remove any information or materials that are unlawful, threatening, abusive, libelous, defamatory, obscene, vulgar, pornographic, profane, indecent or otherwise objectionable. Personal attacks, especially on other participants, are not permitted. We reserve the right to permanently block any user who violates these terms and conditions.
Additionally comments that are long, have multiple paragraph breaks, include code, or include hyperlinks may not be posted.