Today, the Phillies traded away their perennial shortstop, Jimmy Rollins. This move is expected to be the first of many made by general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. this offseason to rebuild and get the franchise an influx of new, young talent for their farm system.
Many presumed Rollins' departure would result in a closer look at Freddy Galvis and Cesar Hernandez, or perhaps even J.P. Crawford who was the Phillies' first round pick in the June 2013 amateur draft.
Jerry Crasnick of ESPN put another name out there this afternoon, which arguably goes against the philosophy well-stated this offseason by acting team president Pat Gillick and Ruben Amaro Jr. of the necessity to get younger.
Heard #phillies are kicking the tires on Rafael Furcal, who's playing winter ball for Aguilas in Dominican Republic.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) December 19, 2014
The 2000 National League Rookie of the Year, Furcal is most remembered for his years as an Atlanta Brave (2000-2005), and as a Los Angeles Dodger (2006-2011). He was also a member of the 2011 St. Louis Cardinals World Series championship team.
The following table shows Furcal's career statistics against the Phillies in the postseason:
Crasnick went on to say that health is an issue for Furcal, and that he has only played nine big-league games over the last two seasons. Also, Crasnick stated that scouts believe Freddy Galvis fits the utlity role better, and thus exploring other options makes sense for the club.
Should the Phillies pursue and sign Furcal, it would likely only be a minor-league deal with an invite to Spring Training.
Matt Rappa (@mattrappa) is a contributor to Philliedelphia.com.
