Tyler Goeddel adjusting to lesser role

Tyler Goeddel had not played for 10 days before finding himself in the starting lineup on Wednesday night. It was the longest layoff of his professional career.

"I was a little concerned," Goeddel said. "I thought it would feel like the first day of spring training."

His concerns proved to be fleeting as Goeddel hit a two-run homer to right field in the first inning of a 4-1 win over Miami. The outfielder went 2 for 4 with three RBIs. He had entered Wednesday hitless in his last 16 at-bats and 1 for his last 26.

Goeddel's production dipped in June when the Phillies added Cody Asche to the outfield mix, which moved Goeddel to more of a reserve role.

The rookie's status does not hinge on performance, as the Phillies will keep Goeddel on the major-league roster for the entire season so they won't lose him because of his Rule 5 status. The team deemed it worthy to get an extended look at Asche and Peter Bourjos as the Phillies decide on their futures.

"There's really no rush for Tyler," manager Pete Mackanin said. "I was looking for a spot to hit him. I told him every time this guy pitches I'm gonna play you."

Goeddel was the Phillies' everyday left fielder for almost the entire May. The 23-year-old batted .288 (21 for 73) over the 22-game stretch. Asche started most of the games in June, batting .289 (24 for 83) over a 26-game stretch. Goeddel - as mostly a reserve - batted .163 (7 for 43)  in June and started just 10 games. It is a role that he is still growing accustomed to.

"I feel like I have a better understanding of what I need to do to be prepared," Goeddel said. "Do more work before the game and stay focused on the bench because you never know when your name is going to be called. I just try and stay ready."