After a solid rookie season but disappointing playoffs, Philadelphia Phillies’ young star will have to earn his spot in center field for 2024.
Everyone has heard the tale of the Philadelphia Phillies’ outfield predicament from the previous season by now.
With Bryce Harper unable to play right field, their defense was atrocious, and before calling up rookie Johan Rojas, there were rumors that they were searching for additions at the trade deadline.
The 23-year-old had an instant impact and strengthened the Phillies’ outfield, giving them a much more formidable unit. He was a revelation for the defense.
However, Rojas slashed through the postseason with little to show at the plate.093/.114/.163 with 43 at-bats and 15 strikeouts.
Dave Dombrowski, president of baseball operations, stated following the season that the standout defender would not be given the position and would instead need to prove himself before being included in the starting lineup.
Rob Thomson, the manager, is hopeful the second-year player succeeds in his goal and joins the Major League club in 2024.
Rojas definitely alters the game defensively, so I’m hoping he has a strong spring and earns that position. However, he needs to earn that position—we haven’t given it to him—in an interview with The Mike Missanelli Podcast.
The value he brings to defense is indisputable.
Despite playing in just 59 games throughout the regular season, he finished 2023 with 15 defensive runs saved and nine Outs Above Average.
Maybe his postseason results have inflated the negative perception of his offense.
In 149 at-bats during the regular season, he slashed.302/.342/.430 with two home runs, 13 extra-base hits, and 23 RBI. However, Philadelphia is seeking to win World Series titles right now, so every player needs to contribute when fall arrives.
It’s clear that Thomson wants Rojas to be appointed.