Philadelphia Phillies Opening Day Roster Forecasts
With the countdown to March 28 underway, it’s time to anticipate the Philadelphia Phillies’ Opening Day roster. The team kicks off the regular season with back-to-back home series against the Atlanta Braves and the Cincinnati Reds, presenting a pivotal moment for roster decisions. Complicating matters are the limited minor league options for some players vying for spots, particularly impacting the bullpen and the starting center field position battles, thus influencing bench depth.
Starting Pitchers
Aaron Nola, Ranger Suárez, Cristopher Sánchez, Taijuan Walker, Zack Wheeler
The starting rotation appears locked in for the Phillies, with rumors of potential signings like Blake Snell or Jordan Montgomery fizzling out. Whether Aaron Nola extends his Opening Day start streak or Zack Wheeler claims the honor remains uncertain. Ranger Suárez is poised as the third starter, while Taijuan Walker or Cristopher Sánchez are contenders for the fourth and fifth spots, sparking debate over their order. Barring this, the rotation is primed for the 2024 season.
Relief Pitchers
José Alvarado, Max Castillo, Seranthony Domínguez, Jeff Hoffman, Orion Kerkering, Yunior Marte, Gregory Soto, Matt Strahm
Two bullpen slots remain undecided, likely to be filled by Max Castillo and Yunior Marte. Castillo is favored for the long relief role, with Marte securing the other vacancy. With Dylan Covey’s injury possibly landing him on the injured list, competitors like Spencer Turnbull, Kolby Allard, and Nick Nelson vie for contention. Castillo and Marte showcase promising performances, though Andrew Bellatti’s solid showing is hampered by his exclusion from the 40-man roster, giving Marte an edge.
Catchers
J.T. Realmuto, Garrett Stubbs
The catching duo of Realmuto and Stubbs remains unchallenged, relegating Aramis Garcia despite his strong spring performance. Stubbs continues as Realmuto’s backup for a third season, displaying impressive stats in spring training, ensuring continuity in this pivotal position.
Infielders
Alec Bohm, Bryce Harper, Whit Merrifield, Edmundo Sosa, Bryson Stott, Trea Turner
The infield configuration is straightforward, boasting a formidable starting lineup and bench depth. Whit Merrifield’s versatility extends to the outfield, likely garnering him more starts there amid the center field vacancy. Edmundo Sosa adds infield flexibility, with potential outfield contributions, rounding off the roster.
Outfielders
Nick Castellanos, Jake Cave, Brandon Marsh, Cristian Pache, Kyle Schwarber
The anticipated battle for the starting center field role sees Johan Rojas fall short, prompting a likely Triple-A stint. Cristian Pache’s strong showing solidifies his claim to the role, with Jake Cave securing the open bench spot, ensuring a left-handed hitting option beyond the catching position.
