After sweeping the Atlanta Braves, the Philadelphia Phillies have an eleventy-six-game lead in the National League East. They can afford to give sore and achy players a little extra rest, as they're doing for Chase Utley this weekend. And that's likely what they'll do with starting shortstop Jimmy Rollins, who is coming off the disabled list just a couple of days after he was eligible to do so. From Kevin McAlpin:
The #Phillies have activated Jimmy Rollins from the DL. Ruben said last night they may use Rollins in "emergency situations" for now
With the luxury of the expanded rosters, there isn't a reason to keep Rollins on the DL to free up a roster spot, so they'll take him along slowly and use him as needed. You know, in case there's a must-win game in September. You never know. The Braves could look like they're going to sweep a duodecuple-header against the Phillies, and the pitcher's spot is coming up in the bottom of the ninth with the bases loaded. Boom, Rollins.
The Phillies have been starting Wilson Valdez in Rollins's absence, but it looks they'll be at something approaching full strength for the playoffs.