Home Placido Polanco is regarded by many as the most underrated member of the Philadelphia Phillies. A quality situational hitter from second in the line up, he lacks any noticeable weaknesses. In 2003, despite being plagued by a hip injury which limited him to 122 games, Polanco set career highs in home runs (14) and RBIs (63). With unselfish play, Polanco is definitely an asset to the Phillies. Besides batting second, he can lead off or bat further down in the order. A patient hitter at the plate, his swing has been difficult to crack by opposing pitchers. Polanco struck out only just once every thirteen at-bats in 2003. Playing both second base and third base, Polanco has moved around the diamond since coming to Philly from St. Louis in July 2002. His greatest contribution to the Phillies has been his willingness to fill vacancies on defense as needed by manager Larry Bowa. Running the bases, Polanco uses his speed to take the extra bag.