Rupp makes first Major League start at catcher

PHILADELPHIA -- Cameron Rupp rose steadily through the organizational catching ranks this year, and he got his reward Tuesday against the Padres at Citizens Bank Park.

He got his first big league start.

Phillies interim manager Ryne Sandberg penciled Rupp into the lineup to catch right-hander Tyler Cloyd, who recently replaced right-hander Ethan Martin in the rotation. Rupp hit a combined .258 with 16 doubles, one triple, 14 home runs and 45 RBIs in 94 games between Double-A Reading and Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

"I'm anxious to see where he's at," Sandberg said. "I haven't seen him catch at all. It'll be the first time. I know that he's come a long way and he's developed a lot, so I'm anxious to see him work behind the plate and swing the bat."