There are multiple storylines to watch in Philadelphia Phillies spring training games this year. The Phillies opening game is on Feb. 22 against the Detroit Tigers on the road. Their first home game is on Feb. 23 against the Baltimore Orioles. While the team did not make huge moves in the offseason, there is still plenty to watch for. There are some roster spots up for grabs. Phillies batting order adjustments might occur as well. Also, some top prospects will see some game action for the Phillies. The start of Grapefruit League play brings the hope and optimism that comes with a new season.
Phillies Spring Training Storylines
1. The Leadoff Spot
While Kyle Schwarber should remain in the leadoff spot for stability, it appears the Phillies will make a change. Trea Turner is expected to be the new leadoff hitter for the Phillies. According to MLB.com reporter Todd Zolecki, expect the top of the Phillies order to go, Turner, Bryce Harper, Alec Bohm, and Schwarber in that order. Phillies manager Rob Thomson prefers splitting up left-handed and right-handed batters at the top of the order. Hence, Bohm is expected to bat in between Harper and Schwarber. Thomson will presumably experiment with different combinations during spring training to find the best option.
The more games Turner bats first this spring, the more likely he is the Phillies leadoff hitter to start the regular season. Turner fits the mold of a traditional leadoff hitter. Schwarber fits the mold of a leadoff hitter in the analytics era. What has been merely a discussion in the past about moving Schwarber out of the leadoff role appears to be a reality this year. Schwarber set a record for leadoff home runs in a single season last year. Turner potentially moving to the leadoff spot might also be in part because the last two spots in the Phillies lineup will probably be filled by left-handed hitters in most games.
2. Key Position Battles
Some interesting position battles will be happening. Some non-roster invitees can make the roster as the eighth pitcher in the bullpen. Taijuan Walker was the most notable player in that competition. Walker arguably has the most at stake among Phillies players due to his contract. Tyler Phillips, a part of this competition and on the 40-man roster, has no minor league options remaining. None of the other competitors for this role already on the Phillies 40-man roster are out of minor league options.
The other noteworthy position battle is to determine who gets the one or potentially two available bench roles. Johan Rojas will probably be on the Opening Day roster. However, that is not a guarantee. Kody Clemens and Buddy Kennedy are out of minor-league options. Meanwhile, Rojas and Weston Wilson have minor-league options available. If Clemens or Kennedy plays well during spring training, it could lead to a tough decision. Rojas being a center fielder and a great defender gives him an advantage over Wilson, Clemens, and Kennedy. It will probably come down to Wilson and Clemens for the last bench spot.
3. Potential Adjusted Defensive Positions
The Phillies are trying to improve defensive flexibility this year. Schwarber could see time at first base or in the outfield this spring. J.T. Realmuto could see time in the outfield, but it is highly unlikely according to Matt Gelb of The Athletic. Realmuto is expected to see a reduced workload during the regular season. That is why they have discussed Schwarber playing more outfield or first base. In addition, Realmuto could see more time at first base and as the designated hitter during the regular season. Realmuto and Thomson have discussed him playing outfield.
Gelb also mentions that Edmundo Sosa will probably play in the outfield during spring training games. Sosa has played in the outfield a few times during the regular season and spring training. This could shake up the competition to be on the Phillies bench. Sosa, playing outfield, could open the door for Clemens to make the roster. It primarily depends on how often and well Sosa plays in the outfield. Furthermore, how Rojas performs will also impact the decision. It will be interesting to see if the talk about improving versatility will lead to those players trying new positions in games.
Main Photo Credits: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
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