There will be one more pitcher reporting tomorrow morning when pitchers and catchers report. The Phillies signed veteran right hand, starting pitcher Kris Benson to a minor league contract today. Benson had surgery to repair a torn labrum in his throwing shoulder 10.5 months ago. He is hoping to be recovered and joining the major league team sometime between opening day and June 1. The Phillies signed him after seeing him pitch at about 60-70% back in December. They took the chance to sign him now before he is fully recovered rather than battle other teams once he is able to pitch at full strength. With signing him to a minor league contract, the team does not risk much money if he is not able to perform after his recovery. Anything that he is able to contribute is a bonus since he is a veteran pitcher who knows his way around the NL East.
