Galvis Continues Impressive Spring

Freddy Galvis isn't trying to do too much, is listening to the veterans and is just putting his head down and working hard.

He's playing a new position, and ready to learn it on the Major League level, yet Galvis is obviously enjoying his stay with the Phillies.

He's expected to be the starting opening day second baseman, with Chase Utley out and Galvis is taking nothing for granted.
"I just have to keep working hard," he said after going 2 for 3 with a triple and RBI in the Phillies 4-3 exhibition win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday at Citizens Bank Park.

A career shortstop, Galvis has made a smooth transition to being Jimmy Rollins' double play partner at second base.

"I knew he could play defense and to me, making the adjustment to second base wasn't that hard for him," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said.

The key for Galvis, a .246 career minor league hitter, is how he will do on the offensive end.

This spring he is now batting .273 (22 for 81). He has struck out eight times and walked twice, so selectively will be a key.

"I think his hitting will keep improving," Manuel said.

Galvis says he has had a blast with the parent club.

"I really like it," he said. "I would love to play here."

He said he is learning more each day about his new position.

"I am getting there," he said. "I played shortstop all my life."

He said the biggest difference in the positions is the double play.

"Usually when you play shortstop, the runner is coming to you on a double play," He said. "It is usually different at second."

Galvis says he has leaned on veterans to help him out.

"Our guys have helped me out a lot," he said.

And along with leftfielder Juan Pierre, the 5-foot-10, 170-pound Galvis has brought an element of speed to the Phillies lineup.

"I don't want to try to hit home runs," he said. "My game is getting on base and moving runners."

His teammates and Manuel have appreciated Galvis' business-like attitude and his transition to second base has been one of the positive developments this spring.