The Phillies' series in San Diego got off to a frustrating and scary start. Andrew McCutchen, after a leadoff walk, injured his left knee while in a rundown.
McCutchen fell to the ground clutching his knee and looking like he knew something had gone wrong.
The play occurred when Jean Segura hit an infield fly. Segura went down to one knee on the swing and did not get out of the box fast. The Padres noticed and let the ball drop to get two outs on the play by going to first, then getting McCutchen in the rundown.
Andrew McCutchen has exited today's game with an injury and had to be helped off the field. pic.twitter.com/bAy1yQ85uH — NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) June 4, 2019
McCutchen is one player the Phillies cannot afford to lose long-term. Sure, they could call Nick Williams back up to play the corner outfield, but he ain't McCutchen. McCutchen has been one of the majors' most valuable leadoff men this season, hitting .256/.378/.457 with 42 walks and 45 runs scored. He also has 10 home runs.
Jay Bruce entered Monday's game and Sean Rodriguez shifted from left field to center field.
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If McCutchen is forced to miss time, the short-term solution would be Scott Kingery in center, flanked by Bryce Harper and Bruce. Roman Quinn isn't far away from returning from the injured list, either.
But again, the Phillies are a top-heavy offense that just will not be the same without McCutchen's bat and glove if he misses ample time.
