The Phillies made just minor moves at the July 31 trade deadline.

While Corey Dickerson was a nice pickup in the outfield, the Phillies added only starting pitcher Jason Vargas otherwise, a castoff from the New York Mets to make room for new acquisition Marcus Stroman.   In August there can be no trades.  But the Phillies made a free agent signing.


The long-time backstop had been released by the Oakland Athletics on July 27.

There is no indication that Hundley could immediately challenge current Phillies back up backstop Andrew Knapp.   Knapp, a switch-hitter, has frequently been pressed into pinch-hitting duty at the end of games, which has helped underscore his .191 batting average.  Knapp has been consistent with that number; as a catcher he is batting .190.

Hundley has played 974 games and batted .247 primarily for West Coast teams.  After coming up with the San Diego Padres in 2008, Hundley has played for the San Francisco Giants, Colorado Rockies, and Oakland Athletics.

After signing a minor league deal, Hundley made the Oakland Athletics squad out of Spring Training.  However, injury caught up to Hundley and he was placed on the Injured List June 9.  Hundley was activated July 24 and was immediately designated for assignment.

At Triple-A the Phillies have prospect Deivy Grullon, veteran Rob Brantly and veteran Matt McBride in their catching corps. McBride is on the seven-day injured list.  But with September around the corner, the Phillies could be looking to add a third catcher for the stretch run.

Grullon is the prospect, but the club could opt for a veteran option, which Hundley could potentially fill.  For now, Hundley is depth.  But his experience could make him a real option in September.

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