Ross Clears, Phillies Make Contact
The Phillies have contacted the agent for catcher David Ross.
Ross Clears, Phillies Make Contact
Todd Zolecki
Catcher David Ross cleared release waivers at 1 p.m. today and the Phillies have contacted his agent.
Phillies assistant general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said they are hopeful they can work out an agreement with Ross, who the Cincinnati Reds released Monday.
Ross hit .231 with three home runs and 13 RBIs in 134 at-bats this season for the Reds. But he also had a .381 on-base percentage. It's unclear what would happen to Ross if he signs with the Phillies. The most likely scenario is Ross finishing the month in triple-A Lehigh Valley, then joining the team Sept. 1 when the Phillies can expand their roster. Ross hit 21 home runs in 2006 and 17 home runs in 2007. He is a .223 career hitter, but Carlos Ruiz is hitting just .220 with two homers and 21 RBIs in 246 at-bats this season.
Chris Coste is hitting .272 with eight homers and 28 RBIs in 217 at-bats, but Charlie Manuel said yesterday he considers Coste as somebody who should catch two to three times a week.
Update: Ross isn't headed to the Phillies. Instead, he likely is headed to the Boston Red Sox.
EL Zorro: problem isnt Coste. He's teh ultimate back-up catcher. Problem is Ruiz, who can call a great game, but can't hit at all. If he at least didnt ground into double plays all the time....— jeff gross- Yeah Jeff. This year he's being awful offensively, but last year he batted .265 with a little pop as a rookie. Maybe he got the sophomore jinx or something. He has to adjust obviously. I think we owe him another shot until the young kids are ready.— EL Zorro
