Phillips’ Throwing Progress Gets Test

Jason Phillips lost his everyday job as catcher, in part, because he had such a hard time throwing out base stealers, nailing only 14.6% (12 of 82) of them.

His replacement, rookie Dioner Navarro, who was called up from triple-A Las Vegas on July 29 and has caught every inning since, has been worse, throwing out 6.7% (one for 15).

All things being equal, does the Dodger pitching staff need to shoulder some of the blame for opposing teams’ success on the basepaths?

Whatever the case, Phillips will start at catcher today for the first time since July 27, giving Navarro a breather in a day game after a night game. Phillips has been working with bullpen coach Jon Debus on his throw to second base.

“I’m trying to get back to a feel, not trying to throw too hard,” Phillips said. “Just be quick and accurate.”

Manager Jim Tracy said he has received positive feedback on Phillips’ work.

“The points we were addressing with him have been [fine], as far as mechanics, footwork and exchange and release,” Tracy said.

Phillips, who has been playing first base to keep his bat in the lineup, said he has been working on eliminating a hitch in his throw. On the transfer of the ball from glove to throwing hand, Phillips drops the arm near his waist. It’s a costly delay that gives a huge advantage to the runner.

“Bad habits,” Phillips said. “I’ve got to just bring it straight to the ear. Even at first base, I’m working on bringing the ball up when I’m throwing it back.”

Phillips has been visibly frustrated while working on getting the hump out of his throw. But he said it’s part of the process.

“It’s just work,” he said. “That’s why you practice. If things didn’t work out and you have to go home, at least you tried.”

*

Minor league shortstop Tony Schrager, who was batting .233 in 86 games with 10 home runs and 34 runs batted in at triple-A Las Vegas, was sent to the Boston Red Sox on Friday to complete Monday’s player-to-be-named trade for outfielder Jose Cruz Jr. Schrager had been in the Boston organization before signing with the Dodgers as a free agent on Nov. 8.

*

Jamie McCourt was named president of the Dodgers by her husband, owner and chairman Frank McCourt. She will continue to act as vice chairman of the franchise.

Times staff writer Tim Brown contributed to this report.