Like everyone else, Rob Thomson heard the public criticism from Max Kepler, who spoke out about a “promise” he says was broken—being told he’d have more playing time, only to end up in more of a supporting role with the Philadelphia Phillies.
“I like the fact that he wants to play. When guys don’t play, they do get frustrated,” Thomson said on 94 WIP Radio. “Maybe they say some things that should maybe be left inside,” the Phillies manager added, implying that Kepler’s comments may have been better kept private.
Thomson continued, “I know these guys are proud and want to play,” and tried to downplay the controversy by noting that Kepler’s feelings aren’t unusual: “They want to get out there and compete. That’s fine.”
Kepler’s Comments Prompt Thomson’s Response
“The biggest challenge for me is not playing routinely,” Kepler said. “That’s the biggest challenge. I was told I was going to be the starting left fielder.” This year, he has appeared in 73 games for Philadelphia, a significant increase from the 58 games he played with the Twins by this point last MLB season.
Max Kepler admitted that the Phillies had promised him a starting role in the outfield, but he wasn’t receiving the playing time he expected with the team. This unfulfilled promise was reportedly the basis of his comments to The Athletic.
Kepler’s Contributions to the Phillies
Through 73 games and 240 at-bats, Kepler has provided the Phillies with 51 hits, 32 runs, and 9 home runs, holding a .213 batting average. He is one of six players on the roster to surpass 70 games played this season and ranks third in walks, trailing only Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper.
