Veteran outfielder Will Venable was not out of work for long. The 33-year-old signed a minor league deal with the Philadelphia Phillies one day after being released by the Cleveland Indians and could end up as the Opening Day right fielder in Philadelphia, reports Matt Gelb of Philly.com.
The Phillies have been searching for an outfielder since Aaron Altherr went down with a wrist injury that will sideline him 4-6 months. With Cody Asche expected to start the season on the disabled list with a rib-cage injury, there is a strong chance Gelb will not only make the club but also start the opener next Monday in Cincinnati.
Gelb suggests Venable could be paired in one corner spot with Rule 5 pick Tyler Goeddel.
Venable hit a combined .244/.320/.350 for the Padres and Rangers last season. Once the Indians told Venable he would not make their team, he asked for a release from his minor league contract, and was granted that Sunday.
The Phillies now appear to be out of the market for additional outfield help after signing Venable, tweets ESPN's Jayson Stark.
