CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Phillies played against what equated to a minor-league team Saturday, so the results in a meaningless Grapefruit League game were even less relevant. Atlanta split its squad and sent one regular, Ender Inciarte, to Spectrum Field. The Braves' starting pitcher, Aaron Blair, was injured on the first batter of the game.
So the 7-4 Phillies win was another chance for Pete Mackanin to watch his young campers. The Phillies manager has stuck to his plan for the prospects' increased playing time early in the spring. Through nine games, he has enjoyed it.
"The IronPigs are really carrying this team," Mackanin quipped.