The postseason is a moment when every aspect of an MLB organization is tested. This October, talents such as Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, Christopher Sanchez, and Trea Turner will play significant roles for the Philadelphia Phillies.
Aside from the apparent stars, there are several other aspects of the game that are critical to the team’s success in the postseason. One of those components is the Phillies’ bench, and how they can enter the game in the event of an injury or to gain an edge.
Fortunately for the Phillies, as Matt Gelb of The Athletic notes, they received excellent news on one of their finest bench bats, adored infielder Edmundo Sosa. He’s scheduled to rejoin the Phillies for the start of their last series against the Miami Marlins.
Phillies expected to get Edmundo Sosa back for Marlins series, ahead of postseason
“Edmundo Sosa (groin) went through strenuous workouts over the weekend,” Gelb says. “And he should be activated on Tuesday when eligible.”
This is excellent news for the Phillies for several reasons. It not only helps to stabilize the bench, but it also provides valuable insurance in the event that Trea Turner is unable to return to form immediately.
If necessary, Sosa may take over as starting shortstop, allowing Bryson Stott to play second base and Alec Bohm to play third base to complete a solid infield.
Sosa has a.270 batting average in 85 games this season, with 62 hits, 26 runs, 12 doubles, one triple, seven home runs, and 33 RBIs. His OPS of.725 is respectable and adequate for the Phillies as a backup infielder.
As previously said, with Turner’s injury status uncertain, Sosa’s return to the lineup is critical for the Phillies. Normally, he’d merely be a solid bench player. But now, he’s a huge insurance policy for Turner in case he can’t travel.
While Sosa has played less this season than he has the past two years in Philadelphia, he remains an important part of the team’s World Series chances.
At worst, he’s a useful bench player and defender when needed. At best, he can replace Turner if his hamstring issue lasts longer than the Phillies expect.
It may not be the most essential injury update on the surface, but Gelb’s report is huge news for the Phillies as they enter the last week of the season.