As many of you noticed during today’s game, Phillies SS Jimmy Rollins was a late scratch from the lineup for reasons unknown to the boys in the booth.  After the game Phillies manager Charlie Manuel stated that he benched Rollins because he was late to the park today.   Eric Bruntlett hit leadoff and played short in his place going 3-for-4 with 2 doubles.  As you may remember, Rollins was benched earlier in the season for lack of hustle.

First off, if this was Reyes, the media would crucify him.  I can hear the callers on WFAN right now.  Secondly, I know that Bruntlett did a great job filling in for him but what is Manuel thinking.  Rollins is having a down year, but he is still the reigning NL MVP and Gold Glove winner.   I understand the importance of setting an example for the team, but this was an important game.  Despite what the calender says, these two teams were tied in the standings with only 6 remaining head to head games.   Rollins is a leader on the field and in the clubhouse for this team and while he should be disciplined he should have been in the lineup today.