Rainouts are no fun, but there are some positives to find in yesterday’s postponement. J.T. Realmuto was allowed another day to rest his shoulder and ankle, meaning he could be back in the lineup behind the plate or at first base. Though they have come through for them, the team is exposed with players like Jorge Bonifacio, Freddy Galvis and Rafael Marchan in the lineup. The extra day means the team could have not only Realmuto back, but also have Didi Gregorius back from the paternity list.
These moves are depending on a lot of things (Realmuto’s healthy, Gregorius wanting to return before he’s absolutely supposed to), but that’s what the off day gives the Phillies. A chance to get some rest for those weary bodies and get them ready for the stretch run about to happen.
On to the links.
Phillies news:
- One issue with Aaron Nola has been his September struggles. Now, after some mechanical adjustments, he feels ready to take the month on.
- The team’s offense has come alive of late and the timing of it couldn’t be better.
- Here is how the team stacks up against the other playoff contenders.
MLB news:
- MLB has made a service time proposal that includes a $1 billion pool for “arbitration” eligible players.
- The Mariners apparently believe enough in their rebuilding plan that they extended (and promoted) Jerry DiPoto and only extended Scott Servais.
- This is always fun. The Athletic drafted two expansion teams - the Nashville Sounds and the Montreal Expos. Here are the results ($).
- As if the struggling Red Sox could use worse news. Xander Bogaerts tested positive for COVID and will have to miss time.