MacPhail talks rebuild as Phillies report to Clearwater

Good morning! Here’s the news rundown for Tuesday.

REPORT DAY: Pitchers and catchers reported to Clearwater Monday, and all looks good.

Phillies President Andy MacPhail spoke to the media, doubling down on the rebuild while maintaining his team will continue to put a premium on pitching. The 2017 goal? “Stay on track.”

So what does that mean? It means allowing prospects to play their way onto the big club, finding out what’s under those rocks, and slowly making moves to improve the noticeable flaws. When will the Phils be in on a big free agent? Maybe at the end of this season. Maybe a little later. It’ll come. He promises.

We’re patiently waiting. Still.

MEANWHILE IN LA-LA LAND: Just to update: The Dodgers have signed Chase Utley to a one-year, $2 million pact. Like Pete Rose some 35 years ago, Utley will find work because he plays hard, and players and coaches love him. Maybe he’ll be a coach one day.

Either way, read this Peter Gammons’ piece about Utley, with a couple amazing stories that are entirely believable.

BALLGIRL SEARCH: The Phillies are searching for a few ballgirls for 2017. To apply, send a resume and a video of your softball skills to the Phils by March 1. More info here.