The Phillies made a big splash in free agency by signing the No. 1 closer on the market a few weeks back, but not many fans in Philadelphia thought that would be Ruben Amaro Jr.'s only eye-popping move of the offseason.
The most interesting rumbling to come out of the meetings in Dallas this morning involves third baseman Aramis Ramirez, who Joe Capozzi of the Marlins beat says the Phillies are a "strong players for."
Obviously the Phils still have Placido Polanco under contract next season but he was banged up for much of 2011. Is it possible the Phillies would use Polly as a super utility man of sorts. Giving guys spot rests throughout the entire infield? Not sure if a guy of Polanco's pedigree and salary level has ever been used in such a situation. And Todd Zolecki guesses Ramirez could be "a backup plan if the Phillies can’t reach an agreement with Jimmy Rollins."
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Ramirez started his career with the Pirates before turning into a star with the Cubs. He hit an impressive .306 last season with 93 RBIs and a .361 OBP good for a .871 OPS. MLB Trade Rumors believes the 33-year-old is looking for either a four-year deal or a three-year deal with an option.
UPDATE: According to Ken Rosenthal, the Phils could be shopping Polly:
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@Ken_Rosenthal
Ken
Rosenthal
Rival exec: #Phillies
actively trying to move Polanco. Would clear 3B for A. Ramirez. #MLB
Dec
05 via Twitter for iPhoneFavoriteRetweetReply