Dodgers News: Jimmy Rollins Reflects On Facing Former Team

Lost in the all the drama that goes along with being a Los Angeles Dodger, is the arrival of facing a team you spent the majority of your career with. Jimmy Rollins spent 14 seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, leading them to two NL pennants, and a 2008 World Series Ring.

The 36-year-old shortstop has had his ups and downs during his tenure with the Dodgers and has seen his place in the lineup shift continually. The professionalism behind the Oakland native has been on full display as his only goal is to aid this team towards bringing back the World Series to Chavez Ravine.

During a media session, the 2007 NL MVP wasn’t preoccupied in all the feelings that come with facing his former team, especially at home in Los Angeles. “I haven’t thought about it, honestly. There’s enough going on around here to keep me occupied,” Rollins stated. “But other than that, it’s another baseball game honestly. Over there, it would probably be different.”

The expertise of the 15-year-veteran is evident, as he is mentally focused to approach this series just as any other. That proved to be true, as Rollins went 2-for-4, with two runs scored and two RBIs in the Dodgers 10-7 victory on Monday.

The Phillies have been on the decline during the past few seasons and now find themselves with the worst record in Major League Baseball. Considered to be possible sellers at the July 31 trade deadline, the team has been through a rough season to say the least.

Rollins was asked whether or not he felt fortunate to have left when he did and the four-time Gold Glove winner remained humble in his response. “I’m glad to have gotten out when I did. I’m glad to have gotten here. Ruben and I spoke about where I wanted to go,” Rollins said. “I said Los Angeles and we were able to get a deal done. That helps a whole bunch when you go somewhere where you want to go, if you have to leave, as opposed to just wherever you end up going.”

The three-time All-Star is grateful for his opportunity to put on the Dodgers uniform, in order to contribute in any way possible towards a winning ball club. On the season, Rollins is batting .212, with a .266 OBP, seven home runs, and 26 RBIs. The Dodgers face former pitcher Chad Billingsley on Tuesday, whom Rollins is batting .318 against in his career.