Categories: 2012 Spring TrainingNewsPosts

Luna Wins it vs Rays; Pierre Contract Picked Up

Juan Pierre is in.

Let’s start with the big news: Juan Pierre is on the 40-man roster, officially, according to the Phillies (thanks to the beats down in Clearwater).

Pierre being on the club does not preclude Scott Podsenik from being on the roster, as well. Phillies GM Benny Looper told us on 97.3 ESPN FM just minutes ago that both men could be on the team on opening day depending on certain injuries and if they will take 11 or 12 pitchers.

Lou Montanez and Tuffy Gosewich have been told they will not make the squad, according to Todd Zolecki of mlb.com.

Two guys are still in play: Hector Luna and Pete Orr. Luna finished off the Rays with a bases loaded, walk-off single in the bottom of the ninth inning to give the Phillies a 2-1 win. That’s after Luna played an entire minor league game. After the conclusion of that game, he made his way over to the main field and smacked a game-winner. Gotta love that.

Luna has impressed with some big hits during spring training, as well as the ability to play multiple positions. That could come in handy.

Pete Orr is also still on the radar. The guy is hanging on and has an outside shot as being the utility-man that the team currently lacks.

According to Mandy Housenick of the Allentown Morning-Call, Mike Stutes is not traveling north with Phillies. The reliever will stay in Florida to pitch in a minor league game if he’s able to. Ruben Amaro gave the media that news today after Stutes complained of some shoulder stiffness.

Keep an eye on the last few roster spots which will include Stutes, Luna, Orr, Joe Savery, David Herndon, and more.

Pat Gallen

Pat joined Phillies Nation in July 2009, coming over from Examiner.com. As a previous employee of both Comcast SportsNet and the National Basketball Association, Pat prides himself on being a well-rounded individual when it comes to sports. However, the Phillies are first on the list. You’ll usually find Pat chiming in on the Phillies Nation Facebook or Twitter account, weekdays on 97.3 ESPN radio or hosting Phillies Nation TV. He’s also a Senior Writer for the site, and in his free time is a music enthusiast and Will Ferrell movie-follower. His favorite beer: Philly’s own Yards. In 2015, Pat moved on from Phillies Nation as a sports anchor and reporter for CBS-3 in Philadelphia.