When the Phillies take he field tonight against the Nationals, a familiar face should be manning the hot corner.  Not Greg Dobbs or Eric Bruntlett, but injured third baseman Pedro Feliz.  Feliz has been sidelined since July 25th with inflammation in his lower back.

While Dobbs and Bruntlett have been adequate replacements in Feliz’s absence, the Phillies have missed him.

“We miss Feliz, defensively and offensively,” Philadelphia manager Charlie Manuel said. “Defensively he plays a huge part.”

Feliz should be inserted in the lineup tonight, playing third base and batting seventh.  Dobbs and Bruntlett will return to their bench roles.  To make room for Feliz on the roster, Les Walrond will be sent to Lehigh Valley.

Feliz has spent the past two night’s rehabbing at Reading, where he went 4 for 8 with two home runs.  Hopefully his return to the lineup can give the Phillies a spark and wake up their slumping offense.