Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Posted: 1:11 p.m.Updated: 4:59 p.m.
By Jim Salisbury CSNPhilly.com
Luis Castillos bid to become the Phillies opening-day second baseman ended when he was released by the club on Wednesday.
Its not a decision we came to easily, general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. Its more a testament to the people here and the job we think they can do. Were comfortable with the personnel we have here moving forward.
One of those people is Wilson Valdez. The veteran utility man filled a number of holes in 2010 and will do so again this season as he starts at second base in place of injured Chase Utley in Fridays season opener against the Houston Astros. Valdez, 32, started a career-high 88 games last season, 35 at second base.
Utley, suffering from patellar tendinitis and chondromalacia in his right knee, did not play an inning during spring training and there is no timetable for his return. The Phillies held open tryouts at second base during spring training with Valdez, Michael Martinez, Pete Orr, Delwyn Young, Josh Barfield and Castillo all getting looks.
Castillo was signed to a minor-league deal in the final week of camp after being released by the New York Mets. The 35-year-old veteran did not embarrass himself in his seven games with the Philshe had two hits and stole a base on Tuesday nightbut team officials decided against signing him to a big-league deal.
Amaro would not specify where Castillo came up short in his bid to make the team. In fact, the GM said Castillo played well. It is possible that team officials had some misgivings about his range and ability to hold up as an everyday player. Castillo missed significant time in 2008 and 2010 with hip and foot injuries. The Phillies already have some age and checkered health histories on their roster and may have decided against adding more of the same.
MLB
With Castillo gone, the final roster spot is down to either Orr or Young. Rule 5 pick Michael Martinez will make the team. He can play second, shortstop, third base and centerfield. Phillies officials are very impressed with his defense. The Phillies are built around starting pitching and team officials seem intent on having the best possible defensive club, a desire that could have hurt Castillo.
Martinez, 28, was drafted out of Washingtons system, where he never played above Triple A, in December. Manager Charlie Manuel indicated that he will give the switch-hitter playing time at second base. Valdez is a career utility man so his playing time will be monitored.
Martinez won almost everyone over, said Manuel, referring to Phillies decision makers. Hes an interesting guy. Hes talented. He can run and throw. He has a tremendous arm. Hes agile and acrobatic. His hitting is better than you might think, too. I think hell be able to hold his own because of his talent and the type of team hes on. Hes capable of being a good big-league player. He hasnt done it yet at this level, but he has the talent to be a good player.
Martinez sat in front of his locker beaming as he learned that he would make the club Wednesday. He began his pro career in 2005 and thought hed get to the big leagues quickly.
I have no idea why it took so long, he said through third base coach Juan Samuel, translator and fellow Dominican. Im just happy it happened now.
Samuel added: Inside, hes jumping for joy. Hes a great kid.
Valdez started at second base in Wednesdays exhibition finale against the Pirates. Manuel indicated that he previewed his opening day lineup in the game.
E-mail Jim Salisbury at jsalisbury@comcastsportsnet.com
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