Just when the Philadelphia Phillies were nudging their way back into possible wild-card contention by winning eight of their last 11, they are losing their starting third baseman, again:

Placido Polanco was placed on 15-day DL today w/ lower back inflammation. (retro to 7-23). A corresponding roster move will be made tomorrow

— Phillies (@philaphillies) July 26, 2012

Polanco has already missed some time this year, and truth be told, hasn't been very productive, hitting just .255/.300/.328 for the season, and both the injury and his performance have gotten worse recently:

Polanco had missed the Phillies' last three games because of the ailment. Manager Charlie Manuel said the injury is similar to a back injury that bothered the third baseman for much of last season.

The Phillies do not figure to miss Polanco's bat. Since his average topped out at .294 on June 4, he had hit just .184 with five extra-base hits -- all doubles -- in 32 games.

Polanco still does play good defense, and if the Phillies have to play Ty Wigginton there very long, they'll suffer defensively. The link above suggests Michael Martinez might be recalled to replace Polanco, but he hit poorly in 18 games for the team earlier this year (.133/.188/.200).

For more on the Phillies, please visit The Good Phight and SB Nation Philly.