Sports and Rants with Brett and Pants : Jimmy Rollins

Friday, May 15, 2015

What's different about Freddy Galvis?

There is no denying that Freddy Galvis has played unbelievable this season. The 25-year-old shortstop has been playing out of his mind as of late. The young Galvis has not been that productive during his time with the Phillies, however now he is proving to be one of the most valuable players on the roster. After the Phillies moved Rollins, there were questions whether or not Galvis would be able to step in. Galvis has not only surprised Phillies fans, but also baseball experts everywhere. This Freddy Galvis is not the same player we have seen over the last few seasons.

When looking at the success Galvis has had this season, people are now questioning how or why this is happening. Freddy Galvis is a completely different player this season; he is performing like a young Jimmy Rollins. There are several different reasons why Galvis has had so much more success this season. The main reason is his approach has changed. When looking at past videos of Galvis and how he approached the plate you can see distinct parallels between this season and prior. Galvis is approaching each at bat with the viewpoint to slap the ball. Rather then in the past when he would try to drive the ball and hit for power, the Phillies shortstop is getting on base. He now takes each at bat as a chance to get on base and do his job. Galvis is not a player that will knock in RBI’s nor hit home-runs, his job is to get in scoring position.

With this new approach Freddy Galvis has been able to basically reinvent himself. The shortstop that everyone saw struggle, now has great potential. He has proven that he has a unique skill and ability that is needed on this Phillies team. Though his hits are mainly singles, Galvis is doing his job, with an unbelievable average of .353. If Galvis can keep up his tear there is no doubt that he will be the Phillies All-Star this season. The ability Freddy Galvis has emulated his favorite player and idol Omar Vizquel. If Galvis turns into half the player Vizquel was the Phillies are in luck.

-Brett

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Monday, December 22, 2014

Thank You Jimmy Rollins

This city has given us some of the all-time greats, as well as some guys that were just true fan favorites. Jimmy Rollins was not a fan favorite by any means. He constantly frustrated fans by doing stupid acts on the base paths, at the plate and in the field. However, that does not mean he wasn't a great player and a great person in the community. Now that he is officially no longer a Philadelphia Phillie, it is time to look back and see what he meant to not only fans in this city, but children all around the area. Rollins was a mainstay at the shortstop position for 14 years. Many kids growing up in the area cannot remember a time without the All-Star shortstop. Though for all the shortcomings Rollins had in this city, he was more important than many people realize. Below are some of the most impactful moments Jimmy Rollins had on this city as both a player and a person.

2001: “Rookie Season”

This was Rollins first full season with the Phillies, an opportunity to show the fans what he can do as a player and he did not disappoint. As any fan can remember, Rollins brought so much excitement and energy to a lackluster team. He proved his worth by swiping 46 bags, batting .274, and providing 12 triples. Jimmy finished as an All-Star, the stolen base champion, and 3^rd in ROY voting. For a rookie season this was one of the most exciting in Phillies history, and many fans knew there was much more to come from Rollins.

2007: “Team to Beat”

This season was different coming in, and many reporters saw a different look on the face of Jimmy Rollins. The Phillies wanted to prove to the NL East that they were good, that they could compete and Rollins provided that spark by stating during spring training that they were “The Team to Beat.” Jimmy Rollins now an established star in the MLB, takes Phillies fans on one of the most exciting rides in recent memory. Rollins would not only win the MVP Award this season, but was a Silver Slugger, a Gold Glove winner, and would lead his team to the playoffs for the first time in years.

2008: “World Champions”

How could anyone forget this season? A magic year in the making the Phillies fought for the NL East all season and won it. Jimmy helped the Phillies fight all season. Jimmy produced all season; whether it came in the form of a huge base it when needed most or holding up the trophy at the end. Rollins helped provided Phillies fans with memories that will live with us for the rest of our lives.

As a person:

Jimmy not only was a great Phillies player, destined for the Wall of Fame one day. But, Rollins was an even better person. Jimmy provided the community with so many charity opportunities and events. He truly touched the hearts of Phillies fans. Rollins also helped bring baseball back to the inner cities, giving kids a reason to play. Rollins was truly a great player and a great man in this city.

-Brett