Phillies call up prospect Johan Rojas

He PhilliesIn need of a right-hitting center fielder, they’re calling up John Rojas to the majors when the second half of the season begins on Friday night. Rojas, one of the club’s top prospects, is being promoted from Double-A Reading, Major League Baseball sources confirmed to the athletic.

Rojas, known for his elite defense and speed, was his choice because christian patch he is dealing with a right elbow injury, the team announced later. Rojas will assume the role of Pache, with starts against left-handed pitching and opportunities as a defensive replacement in the late inning while Pache is on the disabled list. brandon swamp he will continue to see most of his playing time at center.

While the 22-year-old Rojas is an unfinished product, he is having his best season at the plate. He hit .306/.361/.484 in 354 plate appearances at Reading. red just lost the athleticTop 100 Prospects at the start of the season, but Keith Law believes he would be in the top 100 today. The Phillies, according to sources, view their spot on the Major League roster as temporary. It’s still being developed, but this is an opportunity to expose it for a better release while playing a proper role. His standout plays in center field this season have drawn attention.

Johan Rojas’ incredible catch last night was #2️⃣ on ESPN’s SportsCenter this morning!

📽️ ESPN pic.twitter.com/gv0FW7j5Rt

— Reading Fightin Phils (@ReadingFightins) June 22, 2023

“Best defensive center fielder I’ve ever seen in my life,” he said. mick abelthe team’s 21-year-old pitching prospect.

Tyler Henson, Reading’s hitting coach, said last month that he was proud of Rojas’ improved consistency at the plate. The defense is on another level.

“He’s the best I’ve seen in all the years in the minor leagues that I’ve played with, coached or watched from afar,” said Henson, who had a 10-year playing career in the minors. “There is no better one in baseball. He is fast. He is athletic. The routes are clean. He gets to the balls on his feet that most guys go for. And it seems easy. Is special.

In addition to Rojas’ promotion, before Friday’s game against Parents the Phillies called up the infielder drew ellis from Triple A. Replaced joseph harrisonwho went on the disabled list during the All-Star break with a sprained right wrist.

required reading

(Photo: Mark J. Rebilas/USA Today)