Phillies release Chris Coghlan, Brock Stassi's chances improve

The Phillies released Chris Coghlan on Tuesday as they pare the roster before opening day. Coghlan played last season with the Chicago Cubs.CLEARWATER, Fla. - Brock Stassi’s chances to make the Phillies increased on Tuesday morning when the team released veteran outfielder Chris Coghlan.

Coghlan was in the running for one of the team’s remaining two bench roles. His departure leaves Stassi, Daniel Nava, and Jesmuel Valentin as the internal options. Stassi and Nava appear to be the favorites. The team may still trade for a bench bat.

According to two sources, the Phillies have recently shopped some of their pitchers that are on the fringe of the 40-man roster. The goal is to either acquire a…