Phillies’ Johan Rojas Takes a Day Off Amid Baserunning Controversy

PHILADELPHIA, PA — Johan Rojas, center fielder for the Philadelphia Phillies, is not in the starting lineup for Friday’s game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Manager Rob Thomson confirmed this decision is unrelated to a baserunning mistake Rojas made during Thursday’s loss against the Washington Nationals.

Cal Stevenson will replace Rojas in center field and bat ninth. Rojas has played 14 consecutive games, stepping up since Brandon Marsh went on the injured list with a right hamstring issue. With Marsh expected to return soon, Rojas’ absence comes at an interesting time.

This week, Rojas came under scrutiny for trying to stretch a double into a triple during the ninth inning of Thursday’s game when the Phillies were trailing by two runs. Although he made it safely to third base, it was a risky move that could have led to him becoming the final out of the game. Thomson indicated he had a conversation with Rojas about this decision, stating, “It was a little too close for me.”

Despite the controversial baserunning play, Thomson insists that Rojas’ day off is due to general body soreness and not a punitive measure. “He’s kinda gotten [where] he’s played every day. And he’s got some body soreness, just general, but he’s fine,” Thomson explained.

For Rojas, this season has been a strong one, as he is hitting .305. However, he has also made a few questionable decisions, leading to discussions about how he will be utilized moving forward. “I like where his swing is at right now. We’ll just have to play it by ear,” Thomson said.

Meanwhile, Marsh continues his path to recovery, and upon his return, how the Phillies will manage playing time between him and Rojas remains to be seen. The team’s upcoming roster moves could shape the lineup significantly, especially with Rojas performing well at the plate.

Thomson looks forward to better managing Rojas’ playtime to keep him healthy while ensuring competitive performance as the season progresses.