Manuel unfazed by Phils' fielding struggles

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TAMPA, Fla. -- The Phillies, who led the majors in fielding percentage last season, played less than stellar defense in Sundays 7-4 loss to the Yankees.

Second baseman Michael Martinez made two errors and third baseman Ty Wigginton and left fielder Domonic Brown made one each.

Brown dropped a fly ball in the seventh inning. He had the ball briefly in the web of his glove, but it popped out.

It was a mistake, manager Charlie Manuel said. He didnt present the ball well.

Browns defense is a focal point, not only because he is transitioning from right field to left, but because team officials would like to see it improve. On the plus side, Brown had two hits, including a triple.

Martinez made errors on two ground balls. He made just one error in 83 innings at the position last season.

Manuel was unfazed by Martinez play.

He had a rough day, the skipper said. But its only the second game weve played. At the same time, youd like to catch those balls.

Michael did a good job defensively for us last season. One off day doesnt mean he cant play defense.

Martinez spent all of last season in the majors as a Rule 5 player and appeared in 88 games. He is battling Pete Orr, Kevin Frandsen and Hector Luna for a utility infielders spot.

E-mail Jim Salisbury at jsalisbury@comcastsportsnet.com

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