The Boston Red Sox have inked a minor league contract with Brandon Phillips, a seasoned player with 16 years of experience. Dave Dombrowski, the president of Baseball Operations for the Red Sox, stated, “He is heading to Florida to prepare himself for gameplay. Once he is ready, he will join the [Triple-A] Pawtucket team.”
Phillips, who has not participated in any major league games this season, will primarily play second and third base, and will also practice at first base, as per Dombrowski. Dombrowski mentioned that if he doesn’t reach the majors until mid-July, he has several opportunities to opt out.
Throughout his career, Phillips has predominantly played for the Cincinnati Reds. In 2017, he appeared in 144 games with the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Angels, achieving a combined batting average of .285 with 13 home runs and 60 RBIs. His career stats include a .275 average, 210 home runs, and 949 RBIs.
With second baseman Dustin Pedroia only playing three games and facing an indefinite absence due to a knee injury, Phillips could serve as a backup for Brock Holt and Eduardo Nunez in that position.
Last August, Phillips transitioned to third base for the Braves to accommodate Ozzie Albies, playing 25 games in that position during the last season.
Turning 37 this Thursday, Phillips is a four-time Gold Glove winner, receiving the award in 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2013, all during his time with the Reds.
This signing possibly indicates uncertainty regarding Dustin Pedroia’s availability this season for the Red Sox. No substantial updates have been provided on the veteran player’s knee injury since he returned to the disabled list. Reports suggest he is still experiencing some discomfort. While the team’s primary aim is Pedroia’s full recovery, Phillips serves as a valuable contingency plan in the infield.
