Chris Dominguez Powers Reds over Angels; Chase Utley Homers Twice as Phillies Tie Tigers

Players of the Day for Sunday, March 29, 2015

Grapefruit League

Utley: 2HR 3RBI

Though the game ended in a 4-4 tie, the Phillies and Tigers each have something to take away from the contest.

For the Tigers, the knowledge that Yoenis Cespedes is going to be an integral part of their lineup became apparent as he went 2-for-3 with his fourth home run of Spring, driving in two runs. Also, Anibal Sanchez, despite allowing all four runs, fanned 10.

The Phillies can be confident that their all-star second-baseman, Chase Utley, still has what it takes to play the game at a high level.

Utley cranked out a pair of homers for the Phillies - a solo shot and a two-run job - driving in three of their four runs.

A Phillie since breaking into the majors in 2003, Utley has been named to six all-star games, most recently in 2014. Last year, he hit .270 with 11 homers and 78 RBI.

Chris Dominguez

Cactus League

The Reds did not make the playoffs last season, but they're gearing up for another run at the Cardinals, Pirates and Brewers in the contentious NL Central.

Adding to their arsenal of offensive players, the Reds are giving third baseman/first baseman, Chris Dominguez, an extended look and the 6'4" mammoth minor leaguer is responding.

Dominguez stroked a single, two doubles and his third home run, going 4-for-5 and driving in four runs as the Reds downed the Angels, 8-6.

Having had only a brief stint with the Giants as a major leaguer and going 1-for-17, the Reds acquired Dominguez in the off-season and may get some playing time when the regular season begins. After all, in addition to the three dingers, he's batting .340, going 17-for-50, with 13 RBI.