Rollins Says Bring On The Expectations
Philadelphia (CBS)—The expectations are high this season for the Phillies and Jimmy Rollins is fully aware of it. In fact, he likes it. How often has Rollins shied away from saying what's on his mind when it comes to how well he expects the Phillies to do?
He had no problem blurting out the Phillies would win the National League East back in 2007, declaring the Phillies "the team to beat"—then went out and backed it up. He was the National League MVP in leading the Phillies to the postseason for the first time in 14 years.
He had no problem before this season talking about the possibility of the Phillies winning 116 games. So hours before today's Season Opener against the Houston Astros at Citizens Bank Park, Rollins certainly wasn't about to hold back when it came to how well he thinks this team will do.
Rollins foresees big things. He likes the idea that every team will be aiming for the four-time defending NL East champions.
"I do like it, I like the fact people thought we would do well, and now that a few guys haven't hurt, I like the fact that we're starting to hear some doubts," said Rollins, who played in just 88 games last year, hampered by first a calf injury and then a strained hamstring. "I like the expectations that people think we're going to do well. It forces everyone to step up their games and live up to what's expected.
"Just look at this pitching staff and who we have here. I don't think there is anyone in his clubhouse that doesn't think we can't succeed. Look at last year. I missed time. Chase [Utley] and Ryan [Howard] missed time and we still did well."
Rollins said he feels healthy right now. He's had no recurring problems with his calf. And in a contract year, the 32-year-old can envision the player he was 2007, when he produced all-time highs in homers (30), RBIs (94), batting average (.296, discounting the 14 games he played as a rookie in 2000) and total bases (380).
He also knows this is an older team that's been banged up by injuries. Rollins himself has seen his numbers steadily sink, with career lows across the board (discounting the 2000 rookie season when Rollins was a September call-up that appeared in 14 games).
"But I know everyone will play their game," Rollins said. "I love the pressure that comes with winning—I mean love it. I love every single day that the fans expect us to win, because it's the same attitude that we have in here. We expect to win. There's a lot of pressure that comes with being the best. It forces you to focus harder on what you need to do to accomplish that. My mindset is great. I feel great. I'm looking to perform."
So if you want to aim the pressure trigger at the Phils, Rollins is more than open to be put in the crosshairs again as the 2011 season opens.
"I know I can take it," Rollins said. "I'm ready."
Reported by: Joseph Santoliquito
