Benson has thrown privately for Phillies scout Chuck LaMar twice in the last week, a baseball source said after Benson's most recent audition yesterday in Atlanta. Benson's agent, Gregg Clifton, confirmed the private workouts last night.

LaMar apparently has liked what he has seen.

"We have interest," assistant general manager Ruben Amaro said last night. "We're talking to his agent."

Benson, 33, missed all of last season while recovering from surgery on his right shoulder. He is seeking a one-year contract with incentives.

"Kris worked out for the Phillies, and initial reports are the Phillies were pleased," Clifton said. "He'd love to continue discussions with them, and he'd love the chance to be part of that staff in '08. He really likes that team."

Benson first threw for several teams, including the Phillies, in December, but was only at about 60 percent strength. He has continued to get stronger as the winter has progressed.

The righthander is scheduled to throw again Saturday. However, that will not be a private workout. Several other teams, including Washington, Houston and St. Louis, have had interest, and there were indications yesterday that Atlanta might get involved.

Benson was the top pick in the 1996 draft. He is 68-73 with a 4.34 ERA in seven big-league seasons.

Even though the Phils have five starting pitchers in Cole Hamels, Brett Myers, Jamie Moyer, Kyle Kendrick and Adam Eaton, they have made it no secret they'd like to add another arm. Pitchers and catchers open spring training a week from tomorrow in Clearwater, Fla. Could Benson be there? The two sides are talking.