Jimmy Rollins doesn’t know why Ryne Sandberg benched him

Mar 1, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins (11) at bat during the third inning against the New York Yankees at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Things are going beautifully so far for Ryne Sandberg as skipper of the Phillies. We’re two weeks into spring training for the Phillies and he’s only frozen out one of his superstar players.

The iceberg-like Sandberg has sprinkled freeze dust over Jimmy Rollins, sending the star shortstop to the bench.

Rollins’ benching was, tellingly, accompanied by a round of Sandberg praise for reserve shortstop Freddy Galvis, whom Sandberg lauded for his energy and positivity.

Implying that Rollins lacks both those attributes.

To make matters frostier, Sandberg has not even spoken to Rollins about the benching. So far, Rollins is just rolling with it.

“Obviously he’s upset about something,” Rollins told the Philadelphia Daily News. “That doesn’t mean it’s over the course of spring training, it could have been one specific incident, but he’s upset about it. That’s something when he’s ready, he’ll let me know.”

When asked about Sandberg’s effusive praise for Galvis, Rollins said, “Well, everyone is allowed to have their own opinion. It doesn’t make it right, but he’s the manager so he gets to have the last say.”

Rollins also brushed off the notion that Sandberg might be trying to motivate him, indicating that he doesn’t need motivation.

It’s a stare down between Jimmy Rollins and Dr. Freeze. This won’t end well…for Jimmy Rollins.

Like Call to the Pen on Facebook.
Follow Call to the Pen on Twitter.
Subsribe to the Fansided Daily Newsletter. Sports news all up in your inbox.