The Cameron Rupp era needs to end. With the Phillies so far out of contention, it is only right to see what they have in their backstops of the future for the rest of the season.
His stats haven’t fallen off of a cliff, but it’s still time for the Phillies to move in another direction. Since taking over as the starting catcher midway through the 2015 season, Cameron Rupp has done an admirable job.
Thrown into a spot where the team was not contending and fans knew he most likely wasn’t the long term answer, Rupp was still able to become a fan favorite. It is now that time. The future of the position seems ready, and Rupp could find himself on another team as contenders start their playoff push.
Things just haven’t seemed to click this season. Last year, fans were used to seeing clutch hits and long home runs out of Rupp. This year his average has dropped to .234, a far drop from from last year’s average of .252. He has hit 10 home runs so far in 63 games. These numbers aren’t terrible, but it doesn’t seem like Rupp has been able to find consistent success at any point this year.
With Andrew Knapp already taking playing time away and Jorge Alfaro being promoted, Rupp is going to take a back seat. The best scenario for all parties may be to find a trade partner. The Phillies won’t be receiving any high end prospects, but teams in need of a platoon partner or an above average backup catcher could overpay for Rupp’s services. Teams such as the Arizona Diamondbacks or the Seattle Mariners could look at Rupp as a player who could help push them over the hump and into the playoffs.
With so many young pitchers in the rotation the Philadelphia Phillies need to start building up a trust between them and the two young catchers. Jorge Alfaro should receive the bulk of playing time as he is seen as the future starter, so giving him time now to adapt to the majors is important.
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Cameron Rupp has done a good job in a bad situation. It is time to reward him by giving him a chance to compete in the playoffs. The lovable big guy will be tough to see go, but moving him helps set the Phillies up better for the future.