It's homecoming week in Philadelphia.

First, Allen Iverson strolled back into the Wachovia Center.

Now likable former Phillies infielder Placido Polanco is also back in the South Philly Sports Complex.

The Phils announced they came to terms on a three-year, $18 million deal Thursday afternoon. The contract includes a mutual option for a fourth year.

"“We’re very happy to have Placido back in a Phillies uniform. He’s a professional hitter who will enhance our lineup," general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "As a Gold Glove infielder, we’re very confident that he will make a smooth transition back to third base. Polly also gives us some added versatility at second base if and when Chase needs a rest.”

The Phillies acquired Polanco in the July 2002 trade that sent Scott Rolen to St. Louis. But he was traded three summers later to Detroit in a trade that netted the team reliever Ugueth Urbina and infielder Ramon Martinez.

In 297 games with the Phillies, Polanco hit .297 with 38 home runs, 160 RBI and 23 stolen bases.

Polanco's numbers haven't declined since he was traded away. He's hit over .300 in three of the last five seasons and never saw his batting average sink lower than .285 at the end of any of those seasons. He was elected as the starting second baseman for the American League All-Star team in 2007.
Polanco will replace Pedro Feliz as the Phillies every day third baseman. Although he hasn't played third base regularly since his time in Philly, his addition is an upgrade to a lineup arguably among the best in baseball. A career .303 hitter, Polanco is every manager's dream for the No.2-hole hitter: he's smart, makes consistent contact and can hit the ball to the opposite field.

A projected Opening Day lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Placido Polanco, 3B
3. Chase Utley, 2B
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Jayson Werth, RF
6. Raul Ibanez, LF
7. Shane Victorino, CF
8. Carlos Ruiz, C
9. Cliff Lee, P

The new lineup provides more balance, with Victorino, a switch hitter with speed, sliding down to the seventh spot.