Placido

Polanco

Polanco is hitting .346 with a .414 on-base percentage. He’ll score a lot of runs hitting in front of Abreu, Thome, and Burrell if he keeps that up.

Oakland might not have the money for Polanco, but his market hasn’t been as strong as expected. If they sign him, he likely would become the everyday second baseman, making Mark Ellis a reserve.

If the Cardinals give up on bringing in a top pitcher after re-signing Matt Morris, then they might be able to afford both Edgar Renteria and Polanco. Mark Grudzielanek, Roberto Alomar and Miguel Cairo could be more affordable options at second base.

Polanco will probably lose the nail off his right ring finger. He’s day-to-day. Tomas Perez should start in his place.

Polanco’s status won’t become clear until he begins to run. He is eligible to be activated May 23.

There’s no starting job available for Polanco, but he’ll still have some fantasy value. “He’ll get more at-bats than he thinks he will,” manager Charlie Manuel said.

Polanco expects to return tonight, though it will almost surely be in a pinch-hitter role.

''It could be either one of those guys,’' manager Charlie Manuel said yesterday. At the rate Manuel is backtracking, Polanco may have the job locked up before the games even start. ''If we started games today, Chase would probably be the starting second baseman,’' Manuel said. ''But we’ll let it play out.’'

Polanco remains day-to-day, with hopes of playing this weekend.

Polanco has missed 15 games with a bruised quad, but ''I’ve improved a lot in the last two or three days.’' The Phillies could use him as they kick off a big series with the Marlins.