Two Platoons. No Problem.

Phillies manager Charlie Manuel has been asked if he is concerned about heading into the season with platoons in right field and third base. He seems very content with that proposition, and he should be. While you want everyday players who you can pencil into the lineup without a second thought, a platoon situation helps you get the most out of a relatively weak position. Not only that, but giving more players more at-bats keeps them sharp and better prepares them for pinch-hitting assignments.

Let’s start with right field. Geoff Jenkins, who hit 21 home runs in 420 at-bats last season with Milwaukee, will bat against righthanders and provide a left-handed power bat off the bench. He should at least match those numbers, although adding another strikeout-prone hitter to the lineup is somewhat of a concern. Jayson Werth, a former blue chipper with the Dodgers who more than picked up the slack when Shane Victorino went down last season, will bat against lefties while spelling Victorino in center and Pat Burrell in left. This platoon will prevent anyone from being overworked and should add even more offense to an already potent lineup.

At third base, Wes Helms proved his one solid season is 2006 was a bit of a fluke and found himself on the bench for a good part of last season as Charlie Manuel unsuccessfully tried to find steady production at the hot corner. This year, Helms will bat against lefties. Greg Dobbs, who had some clutch hits for the Phils but faded down the stretch, will bat against righties. Utility man Eric Bruntlett will come off the bench for late inning defense.

Everyone’s role is clearly defined heading into camp. Nobody is battling for a position. This will help with each player’s mental preparation. Back in 1993, Phillies fans were concerned about a Pete Incaviglia/Jim Eisenreich platoon in right. How’d that work out?