Coghlan among callups on first day roster expands

ATLANTA -- In search of offensive help, the Marlins are hoping some arrives on Sunday afternoon.

Miami is planning on calling up Chris Coghlan on the first day rosters can expand.

The 28-year-old, who was the National League Rookie of the Year in 2009, has appeared in 51 games for Miami this year, batting .277 with a .326 on-base percentage.

Along with Coghlan, the Marlins will recall right-hander Chris Hatcher and select the contract of lefty Zach Phillips from Triple-A New Orleans. To make 40-man roster room for Phillips, Kevin Slowey is being transferred to the 60-day disabled list.

Coghlan last played for Miami on June 8, and since then he has been on the disabled list with what was called right calf nerve irritation. Basically, Coghlan has dealt with a nerve-related back injury that sent discomfort down his leg.

During his rehab assignment, Coghlan was 5-for-27 at Class A Jupiter, before joining Triple-A New Orleans, where he is 6-for-12 in three games.

When Coghlan returns to the Marlins, the question will be where does he play. He's seeing action now at third base, but he has played mostly outfield since his rookie season. He could be used in center field and third base.

"He's been playing third base in the Minor Leagues," manager Mike Redmond said. "I foresee him to play third base, but that's not to say he won't be playing in the outfield, either.

"We'll just kind of wait and see where we're at. Right now, we need a bat. We need somebody to come in and hit. If he comes in and hits, we'll find a spot for him."