3 important things we’ve learned about the Phillies at the season’s 30% mark

The Phillies are about one-third of the way through 2024. Here are some takeaways from the first leg of the season

Philadelphia Phillies utility player Whit Merrifield
Philadelphia Phillies utility player Whit Merrifield | Rich Storry/GettyImages
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Edmundo Sosa is a valuable bench piece

When the Phillies traded for Edmundo Sosa at the trade deadline in 2022, they believed they were getting a nice bench piece to add infield depth. So far in his Phillies career — and 2024 in particular — they have gotten just that.

When Trea Turner was placed on the injured list in early May, it was assumed that Sosa would get much more playing time at shortstop and he would need to step up. He has.

Going into Sunday's series finale, the versatile infielder was slashing .354/.446/.688 with two home runs — both in his last three games — 15 runs scored and 11 RBI since Turner was placed on the IL.

This is the 28-year-old's best run in a Phillies uniform, and it could not have come at a better time. He has been a solid depth piece for the club since his addition; however, in Turner's absence, he has taken it up a notch.

While his production is likely unsustainable, what he has contributed to the Phillies' hot start cannot be understated. When the $300 million Turner returns from the injured list sooner rather than later, Sosa will go back to the bench. But his performance during this opportunity should give the club more confidence in the multi-positional Sosa.

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