Jimmy Rollins joins line-up after being benched against New York Mets - MLB Update
Shortstop Jimmy Rollins has been called up for the game against the Atlanta Braves on Friday following the mistakes committed by him while running through the bases and the punishment he received on Thursday from the Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie
Manuel.
While initially Manuel expressed reluctance in admitting that Rollins will be given the chance in the next game, it came out on Friday that the player has joined the line-up after apologising to the manager.
Rollins has realised that he was wrong and therefore is ready to shun the slackness now and makes sure he reaches the bases as soon as possible after hitting.
It was not the first time Manuel was unhappy with his lack of hustle. In fact the shortstop was warned by the manager a number of times before and has been asked to show more energy while running toward the bases. Perhaps due to the same reason the manager
did not tolerate the incident when he popped up and pitcher Jonathon Niese dropped the catch while he failed to make any dedicated effort toward reaching the base. Thus, the manager benched him.
However, Rollins right now is focused on improving and ascertaining that whenever he strikes hits he makes the most of them.
Meanwhile, Manuel has clarified that instead of forcing Rollins to run he hopes the shortstop enjoys the idea of running because if a hitter does not do so he cannot be a good baseball player.
"I don't want to try to have to make Jimmy run," Manuel said. "I want Jimmy to want to run, and I want Jimmy to want to run because you're supposed to run and you should run. That's what baseball's all about. I told him the same thing."
As Rollins plays the upcoming games the fans will be watching the distinctive improvements he tries to bring and the strategy he follows toward running.
The Phillies can be pleased with the fact that the shortstop has understood he is at-fault.
"You break the rules, that was the punishment," Rollins said. "It's really that simple."
Phillies will be looking forward to see Rollins connecting more hits and contribute to the success of the team.
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