When JT Realmuto returns after the All-Star Break, the Phillies will face a tough decision similar to when they sent Johan Rojas to AAA to make room for Trea Turner. This time, they should keep Rafael Marchan on the active roster and option Garrett Stubbs to the minors.
Marchan’s recent performance, including a four-hit night in the Phillies’ 9-2 victory over San Diego, highlights his offensive capabilities. In contrast, Stubbs has taken 45 plate appearances to achieve his fifth hit of the season, with a batting average of just .191 and one extra-base hit in 75 plate appearances. His .473 OPS ranks 367th out of 383 players with the same number of plate appearances.
RAFFY MARCHAN TANK SHOT FOR THE LEAD! THIS TEAM!pic.twitter.com/LPrRAzleOx
— Luke Arcaini (@ArcainiLuke) June 15, 2024
Marchan’s offensive contributions include a home run in his second start of the season, matching Stubbs’ total over his last 77 games. While Stubbs is valued for his role as the team’s unofficial “Chief Vibes Officer” and his clubhouse playlist skills, what truly boosts team morale is hitting, scoring, and winning games.
Defensively, Marchan is preferred by top pitcher Ranger Suarez, who has a 1.03 ERA with Marchan catching over 26.1 innings, compared to a 5.34 ERA with Stubbs over 60.2 innings. Marchan’s defensive skills are nearly on par with Realmuto, widely regarded as the best defensive catcher in the game.
Rafael Marchan on that caught stealing in the 3rd:
– Pop time: 1.83 seconds
– Arm strength: 85.9 mphJ.T. Realmuto's averages this season:
– Pop time: 1.86 seconds
– Arm strength 84.9 mphNot implying anything here. Just showing how incredible that throw was by Marchan.
— Paul Casella (@Paul_CasellaMLB) June 17, 2024
Marchan’s consistent effort and defensive reliability make him a better choice to play 1 to 2 games a week once Realmuto returns. The Phillies can feel more confident with Marchan in the lineup than with Stubbs.
