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Phillies transitioning Andrew Knapp into the starting role

By George Stockburger

Mar 7, 2016; Bradenton, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Andrew Knapp (80) catches as umpire Phil Cuzzi (10) looks on during the seventh inning of a spring training baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at McKechnie Field. The Phillies won 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 7, 2016; Bradenton, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Andrew Knapp (80) catches as umpire Phil Cuzzi (10) looks on during the seventh inning of a spring training baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at McKechnie Field. The Phillies won 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /
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Phillies coaches are quietly making a major move in their starting lineup

Phillies baseball is as big of a train wreck as we’ve ever seen in the city of Philadelphia. Fans are calling for the manager’s head, and demanding the top prospects get an opportunity to play on an everyday basis.

Quietly, the organization is complying with one of those demands by starting one of their top prospects in the everyday lineup.

Somewhat of a forgotten piece of the Phillies organization, catcher Andrew Knapp is making his fourth start in the last seven days.

As fans saw with Cameron Rupp and Carlos Ruiz last season, the organization is beginning to make the transition behind the plate. This time Rupp is on the opposite side of the move while hitting .248 with four home runs.

Now is the time for Knapp to make his presence felt not just at the plate, but with the pitchers. Bob McClure has been openly critical of Rupp’s performance behind the plate, which may have led the Knapp getting more opportunities.

Considering Jorge Alfaro, one of the top catching prospects in baseball, is waiting in Triple-A the Phillies need to determine if Knapp can be a piece of their future. Rupp, 28, is not likely to be in Philadelphia the next time they compete for the division. Knapp, 25, could be as either a starter or backup at catcher or potentially first base.

Next: Phillies Farm Report: Crawford getting hot

So yes fans, the Phils organization has heard you loud and clear, and appear to be giving one of their top hitting prospects an opportunity to prove himself.

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