Revere in Phils' three-way center-field rotation
Sandberg playing matchups along with Mayberry, Gwynn in recent games
PHILADELPHIA -- Phillies outfielder Ben Revere has started just once since May 14, but manager Ryne Sandberg said on Friday that it doesn't necessarily mean he will continue to rotate Revere, John Mayberry Jr. and Tony Gwynn Jr. in center field on a long-term basis.
"Little bit of matchups as of late," Sandberg said. "But it doesn't have to be the case."
Revere missed a couple of games late last week because of a stomach virus, but he has been available to play since Sunday against the Reds. Mayberry, who hits right-handed, started in center on Friday against Dodgers lefty Clayton Kershaw.
But Revere's production must improve. He is hitting .266 with two triples, five RBIs and a .575 OPS, which ranks 167th out of 173 qualifying hitters in baseball.
"His speed is his biggest asset," Sandberg said. "He can hit a fastball. When he gets on base, he can really make things happen. He's a valuable guy whether he's in the lineup that day or coming off the bench, regardless."