Categories: Phillies Nuggets with Tim Kelly

Phillies get good news on J.T. Realmuto

J.T. Realmuto is entering his third season with the Phillies. (Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire)

J.T. Realmuto isn’t a lock to be in Joe Girardi’s opening day lineup on April 1, but the Philadelphia Phillies did experience a positive development regarding the two-time All-Star’s status.

Realmuto, who suffered a fracture in his right thumb during a bullpen session early in spring training, got what Girardi described as “good news” Thursday. The soon-to-be 30-year-old is “allowed to start progressing into baseball activities.” Realmuto threw the ball about 40 times Thursday, something he probably couldn’t have done without pain a few weeks ago. Girardi says that he saw Realmuto throw from “at least 90 feet” today. Additionally, Realmuto took 10 “dry swings” Thursday, and 20 swings off the tee. Per Girardi, Realmuto showed no indication of being in pain after performing these activities.

For the time being, Realmuto will wear a splint in his free time, but Girardi still appears to be encouraged about the chances of the catcher not missing any regular season time.

“It makes me feel better,” Girardi said. “Had they said ‘No, you’re not ready to start any baseball activities,’ then I would have been concerned. But, it’s a good sign that he’s going in the right direction.”

Realmuto, who signed a new five-year/$115.5 million deal with the Phillies in January, is entering his third season with the Phillies. Across the first two campaigns in red pinstripes, Realmuto has made an All-Star appearance, won a Gold Glove Award and slashed .273/.333/.492 with an .825 OPS.