Philadelphia Phillies expected to look outside organization for CF options

Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. told Philly.com's Bob Brookover the team plans to look at options outside of the organization to fill its centerfield opening.

Shane Victorino had manned the area for most of the past seven seasons, appearing in 751 games at the position. However, the Flyin' Hawaiian was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers on July 31, 2012, just a few months before he was set to become a free agent. Victorino is one of eight names of varying quality and contract status that Brookover suggested the Phillies could pursue heading into next season, although he cites that the team was unhappy with his play in the field and at the plate before the trade.

Michael Bourn, another former Phillie, garnered a mention from Brookover as well. Bourn posted a .268/.340/.362 line in 144 plate appearances with Philadelphia in 2006 and 2007. Bourn later developed into a two-time all-star with the Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves, and led the National League in stolen bases every season from 2009 to 2011.