Five on it: Manuel slides J-Roll again

Charlie Manuel has been playing a game of musical chairs since Jimmy Rollins returned from the disabled list. One day, the shortstop is batting third. The next, he’s down to sixth. On Thursday, Rollins was in the five-hole following slugger Ryan Howard.

So, where is Rollins batting this weekend against the Red Sox?

“When I get home and take a shower, I’ll think about it,” Manuel said.

When asked about Manuel’s decision-making process, Rollins said: “I don’t want to think about Charlie in the shower.”

It’s not that the Phillies skipper doesn’t want his All-Star back at the top of the order, but he’s trying to protect him from re-injuring his right calf by being too aggressive on the base paths. Rollins admitted that he still hasn’t even attempted to swipe a bag.

“I’m getting close. When I’m ready, I’m definitely going to tell him [Manuel],” Rollins said.

But the roller coaster ride up and down the lineup card hasn’t hurt Rollins’ production. He’s 4-for-15 since returning on May 17, and his three-run homer Thursday gave the Phils a 4-1 lead over the Cubs. And while Rollins is working hard at reclaiming his leadoff spot, he’s not changing his approach.

“My scouting report isn’t going to change whether I’m batting ninth or if I’m batting first,” he said. “They’re going to pitch me the same way. I’ve been around, they have a book on me.”