The Philadelphia Phillies bolstered their infield dramatically at this year’s trade deadline. They acquired second baseman Luis Arraez in a deal with the San Francisco Giants, adding the four-time All-Star and three-time batting champion to an already star-studded lineup.
It took significant roster shuffling to get him into the everyday mix given his unwillingness to move off second base, with multiple players on Philadelphia having to switch positions, including Bryce Harper, who has moved back to his old spot in right field.
Arraez has responded by living up to expectations. Across his first 16 games, the 29-year-old has posted a .310 batting average, .324 on-base percentage, .789 OPS, two home runs and 11 RBIs.
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Unfortunately, Arraez suffered an injury setback during Saturday’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals. In the top of the fourth inning he was removed from second base with Bryson Stott taking over in his place.
In the bottom of the third, Arraez had singled and scored, helping the Phillies extend their lead before the issue arose.
Moments later, the Phillies announced the reason for Arraez’s exit. “Luis Arraez was removed with lower-body cramps, Phillies said. He will be evaluated further,” reported Ty Daubert of Phillies Nation.
Given that it is a cramp, it appears unlikely the issue is serious enough to force a stint on the 10-day injured list.
Arraez has battled cramps earlier this year during his time with the Giants as well, suggesting this is a recurring but manageable issue rather than something more concerning. Interim manager Don Mattingly will likely provide further updates on his condition after the game.
