J.T. Realmuto, the Phillies’ indispensable 130-game catcher, is dealing with soreness in his right knee. Though neither he nor the Phillies have sought diagnostic testing, Realmuto’s absence from the lineup for two consecutive games raises concerns. “We’re just going to treat it for a couple days and see how it feels and go from there,” Realmuto explained before the Phillies' two-game series against the Mets. Despite the setback, he remains optimistic, “I’ve dealt with this same right knee issue in the past, and it’s been something that, I give it a two- or three-day rest and it usually feels better after that.”
The Impact on the Lineup
Kyle Schwarber is also out of action, missing three consecutive games due to lower back soreness. However, manager Rob Thomson remains hopeful, noting that Schwarber took swings in the indoor batting cage and looked “really good.” Both players are considered day-to-day, with a potential return as soon as Wednesday. The Phillies, currently boasting one of the league’s highest-scoring offenses, are feeling the pinch from the absence of both key players.
Realmuto’s Relentless Schedule
Despite missing a couple of games, Realmuto is on track to start 131 games this season, a testament to his durability and importance to the team. The catcher’s workload is virtually unprecedented for a 33-year-old, highlighting why the Phillies can ill afford a long-term injury in this crucial position. Realmuto himself admitted, “It’s never good timing to not be in the lineup. Obviously we’ve been playing good baseball. It’s unfortunate, but it is what it is.”
Managing Catching Depth
Should Realmuto need more rest, the Phillies would face significant challenges in replacing him. Backup catcher Garrett Stubbs, though popular in the clubhouse, represents a steep drop-off in talent. The alternatives in Triple-A, Aramis Garcia and José Godoy, have underwhelming stats, and former prospect Rafael Marchán is just starting to play minor-league rehab games after a back injury.
Thomson’s Confidence and Strategy
Manager Rob Thomson remains confident, emphasizing the importance of monitoring all players’ health throughout the season. “I monitor everybody every day of the season,” he stated. Thomson is also navigating how to best use pitcher Spencer Turnbull, who recently transitioned to the bullpen. Though game situations have limited Turnbull to single-inning outings, Thomson plans to use him in multi-inning roles to keep his arm ready for a potential return to the starting rotation.
Extra Bases
Brandon Marsh, struggling against left-handed pitchers with a 4-for-30 record and 16 strikeouts, started against a lefty for the second consecutive game. This week’s games mark the Phillies’ first home-and-home series in a non-COVID season in 34 years, with Aaron Nola scheduled to start Tuesday against Mets righty José Buttó. As the Phillies navigate these injury challenges, the resilience and depth of the roster will be crucial in maintaining their strong start to the season.
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