The Phillies have made a signing, and it's a third baseman. However, he is not likely the solution. Today the Phillies signed third baseman Josh Fields to a minor league contract. Once a top prospect, Fields will likely go into Spring Training along the lines of the many minor league infielders the Phillies have signed over the years. Hopefully they will get lucky.
Fields, not to be confused with relief pitcher Joshua Fields, turns 30 years old next month. He was twice listed on Baseball America's Top 100 prospects, and even spent some time in Japan. In his rookie season with the Chicago White Sox in 2007 he hit 23 home runs and drove in 67 runs in just 100 games. However, despite the promise Fields would never be the same.
Fields last played in the majors with the Kansas City Royals in 2010 and hit .320 in 15 games. Fields spent 2011 in Japan and 2012 in Spring Training with the Dodgers. He hit .322 with 13 home runs and 71 RBI playing for the AAA Alberqueque Isotopes. Lifetime he sits at .237 in 696 at bats.
Josh is only one of three rookie White Sox players to hit a home run at his first major league at bat appearance. He also hit a grand slam in Mark Beurhle's perfect game. Yet a few days after that grand slam, Josh was sent down to the minors. I think few players have been mistreated in recent MLB more than Josh.
Posted by: Monte Ice | April 08, 2013 at 11:25 AM