Phillies' J.T. Realmuto on IL with hand contusion

Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto is not having the most enjoyable month of his MLB career. 

Per the official league website, the Phillies placed the two-time All-Star on the injured list Friday retroactive to Tuesday with a left hand contusion. An MRI showed no structural damage, but he is dealing with a bone bruise. 

In a corresponding roster move, Philadelphia activated outfielder Matt Joyce from the IL. 

When speaking with reporters, Realmuto explained the setback first occurred three weeks ago and then "stiffened up" last week when he was dealing with COVID-19 issues. The 30-year-old reported symptoms often linked with coronavirus cases on May 12 but was cleared to return to the lineup two days later. 

"And when I came back [last weekend] against Toronto, it felt quite a bit worse than it did 10 days prior," he added about his hand. 

Across 35 games this season, Realmuto is batting .294 with four home runs and 17 RBI. 

Philadelphia, meanwhile, began Friday's action second in the National League East standings at 22-22 overall and 1.5 games behind the New York Mets.