Phillies’ J.T. Realmuto Exits Game Due to Lower Back Tightness
Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto exited Saturday’s game with lower back tightness. The move came during Philadelphia’s matchup with the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park.
Rafael Marchán replaced Realmuto behind the plate in the top of the seventh inning. The Braves won 3-1 in the National League East contest.
Manager update
Manager Rob Thomson said the team is evaluating Realmuto. He added the catcher is unlikely to play Sunday pending further checks.
Injury details
Thomson said the problem began Friday night. Realmuto tried to field a throw to the plate and reached awkwardly.
He reportedly jammed his knee and strained his lower back while reaching. The knee checked out, but the back bothered him enough to leave Saturday’s game.
Player status and performance
Thomson did not expect Realmuto to need an injured list stint. He cautioned, however, that it was still too early to be certain.
Realmuto was 0-for-2 against left-hander Chris Sale before leaving. He has been one of the team’s more productive right-handed hitters, posting a .280 average and a .748 OPS.
Team context
Saturday’s loss marked the Phillies’ fourth straight defeat. The club’s offensive and defensive issues continued during the skid.
- Player affected: J.T. Realmuto
- Replacement: Rafael Marchán
- Location: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia
- Opponent: Atlanta Braves
- Score: Braves 3, Phillies 1
- Injury: Lower back tightness; prior knee jam
