Valentin has edge on bench role with stellar ST

Valentin's three-run home run FT. MYERS, Fla. -- Last spring, Jesmuel Valentin had been one of three candidates for two spots on the Phillies' bench. But he lost that battle to Brock Stassi and Daniel Nava.

Valentin could win out this year. The switch-hitter ripped a game-tying, three-run home run in the seventh inning Sunday in a 4-3 loss to the Twins at Hammond Stadium. That follows his walk-off home run Tuesday against the Rays at Spectrum Field in Clearwater, Fla. Valentin not only is hitting .281 (9-for-32) with two doubles, three home runs, 11 RBIs and a .986 OPS, but he has showed his versatility defensively, too, playing everywhere except catcher and first base.

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