MESA, Ariz. -- It's the seventh inning, with a runner on base and two outs. The team's down a run with the pitcher's spot due up, and the manager needs to call on a pinch-hitter.
Here's the problem: Whether the skipper sends a right-handed hitter or left-handed hitter, the opposing team has a counter option in the bullpen.
And it's the same pitcher.
That's the dilemma for National League managers who are set to face new Phillies reliever Pat Venditte this season. Venditte is the lone active switch-pitcher in the Majors, and he's preparing for his first NL season after being dealt from Seattle earlier this spring.