Philadelphia Phillies: Freddy Galvis Showing Progress in Venezuela Fall League
October 26, 2012 by Jason Amareld
Filed under Fan News
In 2012, Freddy Galvis had a very interesting rookie season, to say the least. He found himself playing regularly trying to fill in for perennial All-Star Chase Utley. That’s a daunting task for anyone, let alone a rookie.
Galvis played outstanding defense, unbelievable at times. He has the potential to be a Gold Glove caliber middle infielder at either position.
On the other side of the coin, Galvis struggled immensely at the plate. Posting a .226 average with three home runs and 24 RBI in 190 at-bats. He only walked seven times while striking out 29 times. His OPS was downright terrible .617.
To end on a positive note, Galvis did have 15 doubles.
Fast forward several months, which included a 50-game suspension for testing positive for performance enhancing drugs along with a pars fracture to the L45 vertebra in his lower back, and we find ourselves in the Venezuela Fall League.
Here, Galvis has been playing shortstop for the Aguilas del Zulia, who are managed by Luis Dorante.
Through 12 games, Galvis is hitting .375 with three home runs, five RBI, four walks and 12 runs scored all in 48 at-bat. His OPS currently stands at 1.069, which ranks third in the entire league.
Obviously the pitching in Venezuela isn’t nearly what it is in the major leagues, but any consistency at the plate from Galvis will be encouraging for the Phillies.
Charlie Manuel has raved about the intangibles of Freddy Galvis and his knowledge of the game. Galvis will be 23 going into next season. If he can put the work in and improve his offensive game, he could be one of the top middle infielders in baseball.
Galvis should play another important role for the Phillies in 2013; he will be the first to fill in for Jimmy Rollins or Chase Utley if need be and may be given regular time at third base if the Phillies do not address the position this offseason.
Keep it up Freddy, we’ll see you in Clearwater.
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