Mayberry attempts to prove himself in outfield

PHILADELPHIA -- Phillies outfielder John Mayberry Jr. had an opportunity to earn an everyday job last season, but he hit just .204 through April and .244 with a .632 OPS through May.

Nobody knows what the future holds for Mayberry once Delmon Young joins the team in the next few weeks, but he is trying to make a case for himself again. He entered Monday's series opener against the Pirates at Citizens Bank Park hitting .316 (12-for-38) with six doubles, one home run, four RBIs and a .962 OPS in 17 games. He hit second in Charlie Manuel's lineup in the series opener, but he went 0-for-4 with three strikeouts.

"He's been getting on base and stuff," Manuel said. "He's been getting some hits. He stole a base last night. He's got six walks. You guys are talking about how we don't get any walks. He's got six of them."

Mayberry, who entered the night tied for second on the team in walks, could see his playing time cut if the Phillies feel Young can play competently defensively in right field. Manuel also has the option of platooning Domonic Brown and Mayberry in left field, which would continue to give Mayberry at-bats.

Mayberry is hitting .323 (10-for-31) with five doubles, one home run, three RBIs and a .997 OPS against righties this season. He had hit .232 with a mediocre .680 OPS against righties from 2009-12, so that has been a definite improvement.

"When you play good, you always have a chance," said Manuel.