Duffy Signs with Camden Riversharks

Chris Duffy, photo- Jay Floyd

First baseman/designated hitter Chris Duffy is ready to get back out on the field after being released by the Phillies last month. The 25-year-old lefty batter will open his 2013 season in just over two weeks with the independent Camden Riversharks of the Atlantic League.

Duffy, who was the Phillies' 26th round draft choice in 2010 out of the University of Central Florida, had a strong season last year as a member of the Class A Lakewood BlueClaws. In 60 games in the South Atlantic League, Duffy sported a .384 batting average while mashing 11 home runs and driving in 56 runs. Additionally, in two separate stints with Class A Advanced Clearwater last season, Duffy batted .236 with two homers and 15 RBI in 44 games.

Due to their depth at the first base position after acquiring the younger Art Charles from Toronto during the spring exhibition season, Duffy was given his walking papers by the Phils on March 17th.

Just across the Delaware River from the city the Phillies call home, Camden's Campbell's Field resides in the shadow of the scenic Ben Franklin Bridge that connects New Jersey and Philadelphia.

Duffy is excited for the opportunity to play for the fans of Camden and the surrounding area, but is aware that, for many players, Camden serves as a launching pad to get back to affiliated baseball.

Last season, another Phillies prospect that was trimmed off during spring training, Sewell, NJ's Bill Rice, played with Camden, prior to signing with the Chicago White Sox. Additionally, former big leaguer Felix Pie was a Rivershark last season before he landed back in affiliated baseball with the Braves organization.

The Riversharks kick off their 2013 campaign on the road, but are set to have their first home contest on April 23rd at 7:05 PM against Bridgeport.