Jul 11, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia Phillies manager Joe Girardi (25) looks on from the dugout during the fifth inning against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
The Philadelphia Phillies game against the Arizona Diamondbacks has been delayed due to COVID-19 concerns.
Three vaccinated Philadelphia Phillies have tested positive for COVID-19, and a number of others are quarantining due to contact tracing rules within MLB.
Philadelphia was forced to act on the fly, as has been the case with several teams this season due to COVID-19 related concerns. The Phillies announced several roster changes via their official Twitter account.
“The Phillies have placed RHP Zach Eflin, C Andrew Knapp and INF/OF Luke Williams on the COVID-related IL and recalled RHP Enyel De Los Santos and C Rafael Marchán from Lehigh Valley (AAA). Additionally, OF Jorge Bonifacio’s contract was selected from Lehigh Valley.”
Phillies-Diamondbacks game delayed due to COVID-19 concerns
With Knapp on the COVID-19 list, JT Realmuto will now be playing in Friday game, which was initially designated as a night off for the veteran catcher. The team made it official with their revised batting order.
The Phillies are not the only team dealing with COVID-19 related issues. Boston Red Sox utility man Kike Hernandez tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, and Christian Arroyo was deemed a close contact. Red Sox manager Alex Cora revealed that Hernandez received the COVID-19 vaccine.
Philadelphia was on cloud nine following their series sweep over the rival New York Mets earlier this month to gain the lead of the NL East division. However, they have since lost 11-of-15 games since then, and have fallen 5.5 games behind the Atlanta Braves for the division lead.
The Phillies and Diamondbacks began their four-game series on Thursday night, in which Arizona emerged with the 8-7 victory.