Chicago Cubs

Phillies Sign Former ROY Chris Coghlan to Minor League Deal

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 3:13 p.m. ET

Fansided, George Stockburger/FanSided via That Balls Outta Here

Coghlan was the National League Rookie of the Year and will join the Phillies in Clearwater this spring

A former foe who’s done his fair share of damage to the Phillies is now donning the red and white pinstripes.

Former Marlins outfielder Chris Coghlan has signed a minor league contract with the Phillies, and will join the team in spring training. Coghlan has an opportunity to win a job this spring as a lefty off the bench, but will most likely play in Lehigh Valley.

Last season Coghlan was on the Cubs World Series team after being traded by Oakland mid-season. Between the A’s and Cubs Coghlan hit .252 with 10 extra-base hits.

During his rookie season with the Marlins in 2009, Coghlan hit an outstanding .321 with 46 extra-base hits. His production has fallen to earth, and has not had a season of at least .270 hitting since.

In 33 games within the friendly confines of Citizens Bank Park Coghlan has a .303 batting average with 14 extra-base hits. If even a sliver of that production is seen during spring training next month in Florida Coghlan could break the 25-man roster.

Once again, general manager Matt Klentak will look to take a piece of rust and turn it to gold. He nearly succeeded with another former Rookie of the Year (Jeremy Hellickson) and will look for a rebound season from Howie Kendrick in left field.