Brad Miller was scratched from the Phillies' lineup for Saturday's spring training game due to pain in his ribcage, which will be further evaluated before determining how much time the infielder will miss.
Miller, a jack-of-all trades defensively, was likely headed for a key bench role with the Phillies this season, backing up multiple infield spots, but he felt pain in his right ribcage while running during pre-game warmups on Saturday, according to manager Joe Girardi.
Miller is in the midst of his second stint in Philadelphia, having played in 66 games with the Phillies in 2019. He spent last season with the Cardinals, appearing in 48 games and slashing .232/.357/.451. But his defensive versatility is where Miller shows his true value, having played third base, left field, right field and shortstop for the Phillies during his 2019 stint. He played mainly middle infield for St. Louis last season.
With Opening Day less than three weeks away, the Phillies could have a competition for a key bench spot if Miller has to miss any significant time.
