SAN DIEGO, CA – JUNE 3: A trainer looks at Andrew McCutchen #22 of the Philadelphia Phillies after he was tagged out during the first inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park June 3, 2019 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Denis Poroy/Getty Images)
Cutch’s torn left ACL means the Phillies will not have their lead-off hitter and best outfielder for the rest of 2019, which could affect recent acquisitions and veteran players on the roster.
During any MLB season all 30 clubs deal with injuries. That’s part of the game, particularly one with a 162-game season. On Tuesday, Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Andrew McCutchen’s worst injury fears became a reality, with an MRI revealing he tore his left ACL during Monday’s game against the San Diego Padres, according to multiple reports. Cutch’s season ends with a .256 batting average, 10 home runs and 29 RBIs.
For the Phillies, McCutchen’s injury could have enormous impact on this season. Coming into Tuesday’s slate, the Phillies enjoyed a half-game lead over the Atlanta Braves in the National League East. Philadelphia has lost its last five games, including getting swept by the NL-leading Los Angeles Dodgers.
Cutch’s injury will also mean more opportunities for other players to step up in his absence. Second baseman Cesar Hernandez will lead off in tonight’s game against San Diego. Cutch’s .378 on-base percentage will be missed for a Phillies squad with a .324 team OBP.
Like Cutch, Bryce Harper was supposed to be a big-deal free agent addition for the Phillies. Harper has only connected on 11 home runs, and may need a hot streak without Cutch getting on base in front of him.
Recent trade acquisition Jay Bruce will bat sixth in left field in tonight’s game against the Padres. Scott Kingery, who is playing third base and hitting seventh, may receive more starts in the infield or outfield.
No matter what happens, the Phillies will have to play without their star center fielder for the remainder of the season.