Realmuto sits out Phils' loss with knee soreness

WASHINGTON -- Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmutosat out Monday night's 7-2 loss to theNationalswith right knee soreness after leaving Sunday's loss in Cleveland in the eighth inning.

Realmuto, who is hitting .275 with 25 homers and 83 RBIs, has started 130 of Philadelphia's 154 games at catcher. He made his second All-Star Game appearance this year.

"J.T. was prepared today," manager Gabe Kapler said. "He was open about being willing to play today. It was a decision I made on his behalf to protect him and look out for his best interests."

Realmuto said he suffered the injury while running out a double-play grounder in the fifth inning. He said he didn't feel anything while running but experienced discomfort while catching.

He said he would undergo an MRI as a precautionary measure.

"I don't want to take any chances," Realmuto said. "I don't see it being anything too serious. I should feel better tomorrow."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.