Jimmy Rollins Should Be First Move For Philadelphia Phillies


Jimmy Rollins

Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Since the day he was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the second round of the 1996 amateur baseball draft, Jimmy Rollins has brought charisma, entertainment and his infectious smile to ballparks across America, all while wearing the red and white pinstripes. Rollins became the face of the franchise, when after years of mediocrity and cellar-dwelling, the Phillies began to build the greatest team of their storied history.

After 13 grueling major league seasons, a World Series Championship, a National League MVP award and four Gold Gloves, it’s time for the Phillies to move on from Rollins.

Although he continues to field his position as well as any player in baseball, his consistency for laziness has become a mainstay in his everyday game. With young, fresh talent waiting in the wings as he once did, Rollins has become stale in a city where he will always be beloved. Simply jogging down the first base line regardless of the effect it has on the game, Rollins has made it seem satisfactory to just be present.

The franchise would be better suited at this point to give the spot to a young and charismatic player like Rollins once was, and to split ties amicably while gaining something in return before the option has dissipated.

At this point, the Phillies still have the opportunity to make a push and become a playoff contender, but counting on Jimmy to produce the dominating and consistent performances of his past are more of a wishful ode to a distant memory than a reliable, current expectation.

Bob Francis is a sports contributor for www.RantSports.com.  Follow him on Twitter @rfrancisjr, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google


Sign Up
for the

We Recommend

Partner with USA TODAY Sports Digital Properties