Jimmy Rollins, never one to mince words, said in a radio interview with Philadelphia’s 94 WIP that the Phillies “should have been to the World Series four times and won at least three”. Andrew Kulp of The 700 Level transcribed the interview, providing the context:
Since winning it all in 2008, the Phillies’ trajectory has been on a continuous downward slope:
- 2009: Lost World Series in six games to the Yankees
- 2010: Lost NLCS in six games to the Giants
- 2011: Lost NLDS in five games to the Cardinals
- 2012: Finished 81-81 in third place in NL East
- 2013: Finished 73-89 in fourth place in NL East
- 2014: On pace for 74-88 record, last place in NL East
Rollins was asked about that in particular because now that he broke the Phillies’ all-time hits record, many are wondering if Rollins -- who has been with the Phillies since he was drafted in the second round in the 1996 draft -- would waive his 10-and-5 rights so the Phillies could trade him to another team and begin a rebuild. Rollins had said while he was chasing the hits record that he wasn’t considering it, but he has softened his stance since.
Rollins, 35, is having a productive season, slashing .252/.339/.394 with eight home runs, 29 RBI, and 13 stolen bases on the season.
