Bob Cooney- Do The Phillies Have a Leader?

Everybody seems to be looking for one when it comes to sports anymore and one of the biggest questions surrounding the struggling Phillies right now is – do they have one?

I’m talking about a leader. Now if you’ve listened to the John Kincade Show with any regularity, you’ve heard me state numerous times that leadership is something that I don’t think is very important in professional sports. My reasoning is this.

Most people lucky enough to play professional sports were probably the best player on their teams from youth to college. Does that mean they also had to be saddled with the tag of “leader” also, just because they were the best at what they did? Also, if you are one of the best, do you need to have a “leader” instill certain practices or behavior in you? I – and maybe incorrectly – assume that if you’ve reached the professional level, you’ve been able to navigate your way through your sport with a pretty good handle. And if there has to be a designated leader, does that mean everyone else are followers?

That being said, I don’t think the Phillies – who had lost nine of 12 heading into Thursday afternoon’s game, need someone in the clubhouse to throw chairs or curse guys out or call a team meeting. What I’m looking for is the guy that stands out with his effort, whether it be getting clutch hits, or extra hustle on the base paths or in the field. A pitcher who will embrace his role every time out and perform to a level where his teammates know they can count on him.

I’ve always looked at J.T. Realmuto as a guy that I’d emulate if I was a player – a guy who keeps his head down and does his job (really well); A guy who wants to be out there every single game playing the toughest position in the sport. But that’s me. Maybe you reading this is the type that needs someone to give you that pat on the back, or that stern verbal encounter.

However way they may need it, the Phillies better find it and quick. And if it does happen, I hope we notice it because of the play on the field, not because there was a meeting in the clubhouse.