Andrew McCutchen of the Phillies
Andrew McCutchen talked with reporters on Sunday and spoke about his intention to use his platform as a professional athlete to speak out on topics such as racism and police brutality.

“I’m all about being part of something and doing something to create change,” McCutchen said. “Not just change, but positive change. I’m not just about talking about the problems that exist or talking about things that have happened. We have a lot of people that do that in this world, and a lot of people who are really good at it. I’m not going to sit here and say I’m an activist now or I’m a scholar in this way. I do also understand that I can make a difference in some way, shape or form, so I will be a part of things.

“And I’ll be doing that from here on out. Nothing specific to really talk about, but just so people know, I’m about the change. I’m not about just talking about the problems. I’m about making change in problems."

McCutchen said he will not take a knee during the anthem on Opening Day, but admitted he believes some players across will.

“People are going to feel the way they feel about it," McCutchen said. "For me personally, it’s not something I’m going to do or partake in. At the same time, anyone who does that, they have my support. If they feel like they should protest, that is what they’ll do. That's not something I plan on doing.”

Kingery returns to action
Scott Kingery participated in his first workout on Saturday since being sidelined with COVID-19.

“It’s been about a month-long thing," Kingery said, "and that’s going to be half the season if you get it during the season."

Kingery said he developed a headache on June 11. He also experienced a fever, loss of taste and smell, chills, and shortness of breath. He arrived in Philadelphia on Thursday after two consecutive negative COVID-19 tests and completed an EKG upon arrival.

He hopes to be ready for the opener on July 24.

“I feel good right now physically," Kingery said. "My body feels really good. I’ll probably ease back into things over the next couple days at least," Kingery said. "And then hopefully pretty soon get some live at-bats going and then work my way into the games.”

Eflin sidelined
Zach Eflin is dealing with back spasms and is listed as day-to-day. He's yet to pitch in an intrasquad game in camp.

"I don't think I've lost any ground, to be honest with you," Eflin said. "I threw bullpens twice a week through the whole quarantine and stayed in shape and stayed ready. I've already thrown to hitters since I've been here in Philly. The arm's still conditioned and everything's feeling better, so I don't think it's a setback whatsoever."

Manager Joe Girardi said he expects Eflin to throw a bullpen session on Monday.
__________________________________
Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PGordonPBR

BY PATRICK GORDON
Managing Editor
pgordon@philadelphiabaseballreview.com

1 Comments

Previous Post Next Post