The Philadelphia Phillies have shuffled their lineup and roster quite a bit as they push through the second half of the season, yet Alec Bohm continues to be a key factor in their plans.
The experienced third baseman has had an up-and-down year, showing flashes of strong offensive production but also going through stretches that have raised doubts about his consistency as an everyday infielder—especially with his contract situation looming.
As the Phillies look to get the most out of their lineup down the stretch, decisions involving Bohm are under increasing scrutiny. That’s why his absence from Saturday’s lineup stood out, prompting comments from manager Don Mattingly.
Philadelphia Phillies Bench Alec Bohm After Brutal Toronto Blue Jays Game
Bohm was left out of Saturday’s lineup against the Toronto Blue Jays after going 0-for-4 with a walk the night before, a game that also featured a visibly frustrated trip back to the dugout.
“Bohm was out of the lineup for Saturday’s matchup against the Blue Jays,” CBS Sports reported. “Kyle Schwarber stepped in at first base, Bryce Harper shifted to designated hitter, and Bryan De La Cruz got the start in right field.”
That defensive setup highlighted the Phillies’ positional flexibility and hinted at how they can adjust when Bohm isn’t in the lineup. However, it didn’t necessarily reflect any change in his role or standing with the team.
“I trust Alec,” manager Don Mattingly said, via the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Lochlahn March.
However, Mattingly noted that the break came at an ideal time for Bohm, who appears to benefit from a reset.
“Over the course of the year, there’s been some ups and downs,” Mattingly said, via March. “He’s had stretches where he’s looked really good and others where he hasn’t been as sharp, but overall, he’s been someone who has come through with some big runs for us.”
Philadelphia Phillies Make Alec Bohm Decision As Concerns Mount
Mattingly stopped short of labeling the day off as a “reset” for Bohm, even while acknowledging the rising concerns from fans.
“Reset isn’t really the right word for this situation,” Mattingly said, via March. “It was more of a routine day we had planned. Still, I do think the time off helps him physically and gives him a bit of a breather during this stretch.”
For now, the Phillies’ stance is clear: Bohm still has areas to improve, but the organization believes he can continue to play a meaningful role moving forward.
