Jim Thome is working out in Arizona in hopes of catching on with a Major League team at some point this season.

The 42-year-old called Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie Manuel, a longtime friend, with a request two weeks ago.

"Chuck, can I come hang out with you?" Thome asked.

"He still thinks he can play," Manuel said. "He misses the game. Baseball is his identity. That's all he's done for 20-some years or so. He's kind of having a hard time adjusting."