Geoff Jenkins, the left-handed veteran outfielder, has been let go by the Phillies. The move came Tuesday, and, due to timing and other circumstances, has been immediately tied to the Tigers' release of Gary Sheffield. Because Sheffield is still under contract with the Tigers, the Phillies would only have to sign Sheffield to the league minimum -- as the Tigers are still paying him upwards of $14 million. This would be a situation exactly like the Cubs had with Jim Edmonds last season -- after the Padres cut the center fielder.
ESPN's Buster Olney is reporting the Phillies are interested in the aging slugger, though a source indicated to FanHouse the Phillies haven't decided if they really want to pursue Sheffield or not.
If they do end up showing interest, though, the question would be where Sheffield fits in. He couldn't platoon with Jayson Werth, because they are both right-handed. It's doubtful the Phils would platoon Sheffield with Raul Ibanez, considering the massive investment they have made in Ibanez. After that, you have to wonder how much of a backup role Sheffield would be willing to accept. He's not exactly a humble man.
As for Jenkins, he should be able to find a job somewhere, despite the fact that he turns 35 this season. He's a left-handed pinch-hitter with some pop, so he should be able to hang on for another year or two. He has a .275 career batting average with 221 home runs in 11 seasons. He had a key double (pictured above right) and run scored in Game 5 of the 2008 World Series. In light of that, I'm sure Phillies fans will never forget about him.
Phils Cut Jenkins, Interested in Sheffield? originally appeared on MLB FanHouse on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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