Rollins Out, Polanco In, Ibanez Umm

The injury bug is starting to creep up with the aging, first placed Philadelphia Phillies. Jimmy Rollins was placed on the disabled list today with a strained groin. Raul Ibanez was scratched from today’s also because of groin soreness. I wonder what parties they’ve been frequenting lately?? No, all kidding aside its a blow to the Phillies that two of their starters are now on the mend but is it really?

First, Placido Polanco returns from his sports hernia today. So he and Rollins essentially flipped a spot which allows Wilson Valdez to shift over to shortstop. This move should definitely lessen the loss of Rollins as Wilson had been a serviceable replacement during Polanco’s absence. He may not have lit it up offensively but he lets the team continue on with a similar lineup.

Second, is the timing of these injuries. I know you’re thinking it’s late August, it’s pennant race time. I say what pennant race? The Phillies have been virtually guaranteed a playoff spot for a long time now, so this couldn’t be better.

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Rollins said he’ll be out till at least early-September. In my opinion, that’s great he’ll get an extended vacation late in the season and still have enough time to get his swing back before the playoffs started. For a soon to be 33-year old with recent injury history I’d say that’s great. The best thing is he sees the big picture and won’t rush himself back.

“I’ll be back September some time,” Rollins said. “When, I don’t know. Whenever, I come off I want to make sure I’m solid.” (Phillies Zone at Philly.com)

Ibanez same thing, the Phillies can afford to play it ultra conservative. If the 39-years old groin stays sore keep him on the bench, let him get some valuable rest as well. Giving him rest will also give John Mayberry Jr even more playing time and valuable experience. Experience that could come in very valuable in the late innings of October.

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Again while injuries are a scary thing, even when they’re of the minor/nagging variety, for a team dominating baseball, it’s not a bad thing. Legs will be rested and the guys should come back fully focused after a late season break.

Remember they do hold a 6.5 game division lead and 14.5 game wild card lead, oh and let’s not forget the three aces. They’re in no danger in missing of the playoffs. Right now they’re just going through the motions and getting ready for another edition of Red October.

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Tags: Jimmy Rollins, MLB, Philadelphia Phillies, Placido Polanco, Raul Ibanez, Wilson Valdez