Jimmy Rollins on pace for June 6
Mets fans love to hate Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins. Just as Phillies fans love to hate Jose Reyes, and Yankees fans hate Kevin Youkilis.
But since winning the NL MVP in 2007, Rollins hasn't been the same player, and this year, he's barely seen the field.
He's had two stints on the DL with a strained right calf this season — the second coming just five games off coming off the first stint. Though he has good numbers (he's batting .341 with two homers, seven RBIs and two steals), he's only played in 12 games.
Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. said last night that Rollins (pictured, left) could be activated on June 6 against San Diego, the first day he's eligible to return.
What does this mean directly for the Mets? Not much, since they won't face the Phillies again until August 6. But indirecty, it could be key in the standings, as Philly is 9-3 with Rollins in the lineup and just 17-16 without him.
Juan Castro and Wilson Valdez have played the bulk of the time with Rollins on the DL. They have a combined 16 RBIs with no home runs and 19 strikeouts.
Said Castro to MLB.com: "We want Jimmy. Unfortunately, he's been having these problems ... it's a tough situation for the team."
