Thome signed a one-year deal with the Phillies that, according to a baseball source, is worth $1.25 million. The Phillies will ask him to fill the role of bench player, something Thome has never done in his 21-season career. He no longer has the benefit of the designated- hitter position to accrue at-bats without requiring a glove. Staying sharp will be a challenge and adjustments will come.
On Saturday, Thome's trademark smile momentarily cast aside those questions.
"I'm excited to be here," Thome said. "It's kind of surreal, to be honest, to be sitting here with the team they have and what they've done in the National League and in baseball. It's been fun to watch them from the other side and now it's even better to sit here and be a part of it."
The Phillies wanted Thome last August, but Cleveland claimed him off waivers before the Phillies had a chance. Thome has longed for a reunion with manager Charlie Manuel, his baseball mentor and father figure. In a clubhouse that occasionally lacked a vocal leader in times of distress, Thome provides a voice respected by his peers.
He may even be able to recruit others, too. Thome said he has already exchanged text messages with former Minnesota teammate Michael Cuddyer, a free agent the Phillies have interest in. "I'm sure we will talk going forward," Thome said.
Most important, Thome brings the threat of power off Manuel's bench that can alter late-game situations. The challenge will be finding enough use for Thome to keep him a weapon.
