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Phillies expect Rollins to return vs. Astros

Apr 15, 2008 - 3:41 PM Houston (5-8) at Philadelphia (6-7) 7:05 pm EDT

PHILADELPHIA (Ticker) - The Philadelphia Phillies can't seem to get everybody healthy at the same time. But as returns go, it doesn't get much bigger than getting the reigning National League MVP back.

Shortstop Jimmy Rollins expects to make his return to the lineup on Tuesday when the Phillies begin a three-game series with the Houston Astros.

Rollins has missed most of the last five games because of a sprained left ankle, striking out as a pinch hitter in his only at-bat on Thursday. He'll likely step right back into the leadoff spot - his customary spot - after interim leadoff hitter Shane Victorino went to the disabled list with a calf injury on Sunday.

Just two days before Rollins was injured last Tuesday, closer Brad Lidge made his season debut after starting the season on the disabled list after undergoing right knee surgery.

Hoping to benefit from Rollins' presence will be Adam Eaton (0-0, 3.95 ERA), who has not factored into the decision in either of his two starts despite pitching fairly well. The righthander allowed three runs over six innings in a 4-3 loss against the New York Mets on Thursday.

His opposition will be Shawn Chacon (0-0, 3.75), who has fared a bit better than Eaton despite walking four batters in each of his first two starts. In last Tuesday's 5-3 loss to St. Louis, the righthander tossed six frames, yielding three runs and four hits.