Phillies’ Manager Hints Youngster Will Be Starting Center Fielder.
After a poor 2023 season, the Philadelphia Phillies considered every potential alternative for improving their roster and winning their first World Series title since 2008.
One of those options was to start Johan Rojas in the minor leagues.
This statement from Dave Dombrowski drew a lot of attention because Rojas significantly transformed the Phillies’ outfield defense when he made his debut last summer.
Kyle Schwarber was shifted to designated hitter instead of left field, allowing Brandon Marsh to play there while Rojas used his speed in center.
The 23-year-old was one of the league’s finest defenders after being called up, with a defensive bWAR of 1.7 and 15 defensive runs saved.
However, during the playoffs, he was a liability at the bat.
He finished with a slash line of.093/.114/.163, with only four hits and 15 strikeouts.
That performance prompted Dombrowski to indicate that they would start Rojas in the minors, despite the fact that he had a.302/.342/.430 slash line with 45 hits, two home runs and 23 RBI during the regular season.
However, Philadelphia is not focused on that part of the calendar. They want to win a title, thus they need guys who can perform in the playoffs.
However, it appears like Dombrowski is shifting his stance on Rojas, making an intriguing revelation during an appearance on 94 WIP.
“Likely, yeah. Definitely no. So I believe the answer would be yes… I’ve spoken with our hitting coaches extensively about his growth over the winter – he’s worked exceptionally hard and made the necessary adjustments,” he said.
This is positive news for the Phillies.
They need his defense on the field, and if he can improve his hitting beyond what he demonstrated during the regular season, he will be a valuable addition.
It’s quite evident that he belongs in Major League Baseball.
Philadelphia appears to know who their center fielder will be on Opening Day.
