The Philadelphia Phillies have made several adjustments to their roster and lineup during the second half of the season, but Alec Bohm continues to be an important part of their plans.
The veteran third baseman has experienced an inconsistent season, showing flashes of strong offensive production while also going through stretches that have raised doubts about his ability to remain an everyday infielder, especially with his contract situation adding another layer of uncertainty.
As the Phillies look to put together their strongest possible lineup for the remainder of the season, decisions surrounding Bohm are receiving increased scrutiny. That was particularly evident when he was left out of Saturday’s starting lineup, prompting manager Don Mattingly to address the decision.
Philadelphia Phillies Bench Alec Bohm After Brutal Toronto Blue Jays Game
Bohm was not in the lineup Saturday against the Toronto Blue Jays after going 0-for-4 with a walk on Friday, which included a visibly frustrated walk back to the dugout.
“Bohm isn’t in the lineup for Saturday’s game against the Blue Jays,” CBS Sports reported. “Kyle Schwarber will fill in at first base while Bohm sits Saturday, putting Bryce Harper at the DH spot and giving Bryan De La Cruz a start in right field.”
That defensive arrangement illustrated how much flexibility the Phillies have with their position players and it could offer a way forward with Bohm on the bench. But it did not necessarily signal a change in Bohm’s standing.
“I trust Alec,” Mattingly said, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Lochlahn March.
