It doesn’t look like first baseman Rhys Hoskins will be ready to step off the injured list when he qualifies to do so on Tuesday.
“It’s getting better day by day,” he said on Saturday. “I received the injection to help speed up the process. Typically, you’re supposed to take at least a day to let it settle down. A lot of it is about strengthening the muscle and seeing how it reacts. “
Hoskins first injured his groin while playing on the field against Washington on July 29. He missed the next three games, came back for four but had to stop last week mainly because his mobility was limited and the quick movements caused pain. He didn’t test his groin while running. He will have to do this in the next few days before being allowed to play.
The Phillies open a six-game trip to Arizona and San Diego on Tuesday night. Hoskins will be with the club, stepping up his baseball activities. He still hopes to be activated next week.
Despite missing the last seven games, Hoskins leads the Phillies in home runs (24) and RBI (68). His bat is crucial to the team’s chances in the playoffs.
“We are in the second, third week of August and here we are in first place,” he said. “These matches are getting more and more intense. Shoot, man, that’s why we play the game. It’s hard to be outside. “
The Phillies activated COVID-linked IL left-hander Bailey Falter ahead of Saturday’s game against the Reds. He’s the only left-hander in the Phillies’ nine-relieving box.
Additionally, the Phils have recalled right-hander Adonis Medina from Triple A. He will work out of the bullpen.
Outfielder Mickey Moniak was sent to Triple A and reliever David Paulino was assigned on assignment.
Prior to the game, Vince Velasquez pitched to a batting group that included Freddy Galvis. The veteran infielder is set to test his injured quad in minor league games and could be ready for a big league game in about a week.
Galvis will give manager Joe Girardi another option at third base. Ronald Torreyes took the start again on Saturday. Alec Bohm’s playing time decreased as he struggled at home plate and on the court. Girardi said on Friday that there were no plans to send Bohm to the miners.
