Phillies Notes: Phils audition Cuban outfielder Yasmany Tomas

MIAMI - General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. rejoined the Phillies on Tuesday after two international fact-finding trips, which culminated in a private workout Monday with coveted Cuban outfielder Yasmany Tomas. A cadre of Phillies officials watched Tomas, who turns 24 in November, at the team's Dominican Republic complex.

That showcase came after a recent trip to Japan by Amaro, who was accompanied by senior adviser Charlie Manuel and Sal Agostinelli, the Phillies' international scouting director.

"We're keeping our mind open on every opportunity," Amaro said.

Tomas is the prize, and he is expected to draw serious competition for his services. Major League Baseball has not yet approved the power-hitting corner outfielder for free agency. That clearance is expected soon.

The Phillies are just one of many teams to schedule a private session with Tomas. They arranged a similar one with Rusney Castillo, another Cuban import, but did not bid near the $72.5 million that Boston committed.

Tomas, who is three years younger than Castillo, could command at least $100 million on the open market. The Yankees and Giants are viewed as serious suitors.

Amaro would not comment on Tomas' potential, because he is an unsigned player. The Phillies have a need for a middle-of-the-order bat, but just about every team could use that.

Few attractive outfielders are on this winter's market. Tomas, because of his age and the recent success of Cuban players, is an enticing option.

"The talent crop of free agency has been dwindling pretty significantly," Amaro said. "There is probably more pitching options out there than there are bats. That's a little more fertile than in recent years. I think bats, in general, have been a dwindling asset."

Amaro said he had never been to Japan.

"It was a good opportunity for me to see some players," he said, "and make some contacts with Japanese front offices."

Jimmy Rollins did not play for the 14th straight game, and it is looking more as if his season is over because of a strained left hamstring. Rollins participated in batting practice Tuesday and jogged the bases.

"He's going to be close," manager Ryne Sandberg said. "Whether that makes sense or not, we'll see. We're still on a day-to-day thing."

"We're not going to push him," said Amaro, who added: "I know he's not quite ready to do it; there's no reason for him to go out there and play and blow it out."

Rollins declined comment.

The Phillies have played 21 extra-inning games, their most since 1998 (22). They are tied for the most in baseball this season. The team record is 25, set in 1913. . . . Domonic Brown started for the first time in three games after nursing a sprained right wrist.