Last week, the Phillies made a move that went under the radar. They acquired José Rodríguez from the White Sox for cash considerations after he was designated for assignment.
He’s now on the Phillies’ 40-man roster playing for the Reading Fightin Phils in Double-A. He filled the remaining roster spot vacated by the Jake Cave trade.
Rodríguez in Double-A
“Thank God I’m healthy, feeling good, and I’m very happy to be part of this team and be in Reading,” Rodríguez said through translator and manager Al Pedrique.
Rodríguez had a sip of coffee with the White Sox in 2023. On June 20th, he entered the game in the 8th inning as a pinch runner for Yasmani Grandal and scored the game-tying run.
Being traded right before the start of a season can be difficult for any player. Rodríguez seems even keel thanks to a warm welcome.
“It helps to be welcomed the way [I was] a couple days ago, said Rodríguez through Pedrique. “He feels like he’s part of the team already“.
Career in Review
Rodríguez has played 198 games at the Double-A level with a .270/.317/.434 slashline. Last season, he hit 21 homers and stole 31 bases between Double-A and Triple-A. He’s still just 22 years old, turning 23 on May 13th. He can play both middle infield positions but profiles more as a 2nd baseman.
MLB.com ranks him as the Phillies’ 28th best prospect in their farm system.
“He brings a lot [of potential]. A guy that can play second and short, a right-handed hitter with power. He can also steal some bases. That’s the indication that he’s going to contribute on both sides of the game,” said Pedrique on Rodríguez. “Everybody is looking forward to watch this kid play and see what he can do.”
The Fightin Phils started off a 6-game homestand Tuesday against the Portland Sea Dogs, the Double-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox.
If Rodríguez’s Tuesday results indicate the rest of his season, he’s in for a big year. He walked thrice, stole a bag, and homered.
