The newest Phillies infielder, Edmundo Sosa, had a breakout year with the Cardinals in 2021. He played well enough to spell longtime St. Louis shortstop, Paul DeJong, of a starting role with the team and played close to a full season in the big leagues for the first time in his career.
Still just 26 years of age and viewed as a strong defender at multiple infield positions, Sosa is looking to spell another longtime shortstop for the second consecutive season. This season, the Phillies have primarily used Didi Gregorius, when healthy, at the position. The results? The results have not been promising.
Gregorius, who has struggled tremendously at the plate over the past month, could be the odd man out once Jean Segura makes his expected return off the Injured List in the coming days. Johan Camargo, who has dealt with his fair share of injuries as well, was optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley for the time being. Two more position players to consider as the Phillies juggle their roster are Yario Munoz and Odubel Herrera.
It is worth noting that Sosa is out of options to the minor leagues, so his spot on the MLB club is safe. Although he has struggled offensively this season, it would be foolish for the Phillies to acquire a player, just to see that same player get DFA’d after one AB with the team…
Munoz, a former teammate of Sosa in the Cardinals organization, may not have the offensive upside that Sosa has, but plays many of the same positions as Sosa. Munoz also has experience defensively as an outfielder. Herrera, who was called out by manager Rob Thomson after Thursday Nights win against the Pirates for another base running debacle, could be on the way out as well if the team decides to add an outfield bat ahead of the deadline. Herrera, who is one of the longest-tenured, if not the longest-tenured members of the team, has to set a better example. I am happy “Philly Rob” called him out for lack of hustle.
What about Bryson Stott??
He is NOT going anywhere. No need to panic Phillies fans. I would not expect the team to cut back his AB’s, especially if he continues to swing a hot bat, and continues to rack up clutch hits.
Final Thoughts:
I was a big fan of Jo-Jo Romero (LHP) as a prospect in the Phillies system when he was working his way through the minor leagues. Even coming off a Tommy John Surgery, I felt he could have had a place on this team in the future. With that being said, Philadelphia knows they have a chance to capture a Postseason Birth for the first time since 2011, when they were knocked out of the Playoffs by… The St. Louis Cardinals. Like many, I am hoping this will be the year the Phillies get back to the Postseason. The future is now.
Philadelphia Sports Chronicle 