Phillies Confident Johan Rojas Will Be Ready for Opening Day Despite Shoulder Injury
While much of the conversation around Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Johan Rojas this spring has revolved around his offensive struggles, an under-the-radar storyline has been his health. Rojas, best known for his elite defense, has yet to play in the field during spring training after jamming his shoulder in a Winter League game.
With Opening Day fast approaching, questions have started to surface about whether the 23-year-old will be ready to take his spot in the outfield when the regular season begins. However, Phillies manager Rob Thomson remains optimistic about Rojas’ status.
“We think he’s going to be ready for Opening Day,” Thomson told The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Scott Lauber. “He does such a great job getting his work in that I have really no concern about his defense or about him playing multiple innings — six, seven, eight — right out of the chute. He’s in such great shape.”
For now, Rojas has been focusing on conditioning and maintaining his defensive instincts through a training method called “power shagging,” which allows him to track and field balls at full speed without needing to make throws. The Phillies have also begun ramping up his throwing program, extending his distance to 120 feet ahead of Tuesday’s spring game.
According to Lauber, the next step for Rojas will be throwing to bases at increasing effort levels, starting at 60% and gradually working up to full intensity. If he progresses without setbacks, he should be cleared for full defensive participation, keeping him on track to be in center field when the Phillies open their season.
Rojas’ defensive prowess was a key asset for Philadelphia last season, and having him at full strength will be crucial for the team’s outfield alignment. While his bat remains a work in progress, the Phillies are counting on his glove and range to provide significant value as they chase another postseason berth.
For now, all signs point to Rojas being ready for Opening Day—but the next two weeks will be critical in ensuring he’s back to full speed.
