When the Phillies re-signed Jimmy Rollins to a three-year deal, it appeared Freddy Galvis’ ticket was punched for Allentown for another year of Triple-A seasoning.
“It’s alright,” Galvis said. “The team has to do what it thinks is best and the thing is that I’m still young. Someday I’ll get my chance.”
The 22-year-old may get his chance sooner than later thanks to Chase Utley’s knee problems. Utley will not be ready for Opening Day and it’s uncertain when Utley will rejoin his team.
Galvis is the front-runner to play second, especially after utility man Michael Martinez broke a bone in his right foot.
Galvis has never played second base, but he has shown big-league ability at shortstop.
“He has a great glove,” Rollins said. “All you have to do is watch him in the field.”
Galvis made a number of exceptional plays at short against the Yankees in the first week of spring training.
“I’ve always worked hard on my defense,” Galvis said. “I’ve always taken pride in it.”
Defense has never been much of an issue for Galvis. However, there have been questions about his bat. The Venezuelan, who grew up playing bare-handed baseball, has been a lightweight at the plate in the minors.
Galvis hit .203 at Williamsport and .197 at Reading. But he did hit .298 in Triple-A last season.
“I’ve worked very hard on improving offensively,” Galvis said. “I know that part of my game has to get better to get to where I need to be.”
