Injury Bug Bites Phillies Again…and Again

The Phillies started what may have been their worst defensive alignment in the outfield since the days of Delmon Young on Tuesday night.   The Phillies outfield featured Nick Williams in center field - a capable outfielder - and then essentially two first basemen as Rhys Hoskins manned left field and Hyun Soo Kim played right field.  The reason was that the Phillies had injuries to two outfielders: Daniel Nava and Odubel Herrera.

Nava experienced lower back tightness and was placed on the 10-day disabled list.  Called up to take his place was outfielder Cameron Perkins.  Perkins pinch hit, but it appeared that the travel from San Diego kept him out of the starting lineup last night. Perkins probably will end up getting some playing time, thanks to his defense.

As for Herrera, who is currently in the midst of a 17-game hitting streak, he strained a hamstring in Monday night's game.  While Herrera was held out of last night's game, there is still a chance he lands on the disabled list, too.  Already down Aaron Altherr, the Phillies outfield will be left with only Nick Williams among starters.

The only healthy outfielder on the 40-man roster is Dylan Cozens, but Cozens has struggled to hit .220 at Triple-A.  First baseman Brock Stassi has played outfield on occasion too, and could be a candidate to return.  The Phillies could also opt to add an extra pitcher from their 40-man roster, though options are limited.