Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Phillies have finalized their roster for the National League Division Series, set to face the New York Mets. The team made some strategic choices in preparation for the series opener at Citizens Bank Park.

Weston Wilson has been chosen over Cal Stevenson for the final reserve position. Left-hander Kolby Allard secured the last spot in the bullpen. The roster includes 14 position players and 12 pitchers.

Despite Stevenson's notable performances late in the season, Wilson's versatility played a crucial role in his selection. He is listed as an infielder on the official roster and offers a strong pinch-hitting option against left-handed pitchers. This season, Wilson maintained a .341/.412/.614 slash line with seven extra-base hits against southpaws.

Kolby Allard's inclusion provides additional depth to the bullpen, particularly for extended games. "Just length," explained manager Rob Thomson regarding Allard's selection. "He's going to probably give us the most length if we get into an extra-inning game -- the rules go back to Abner Doubleday rules [in the postseason] -- so I just wanted as much length as we could get."

The Phillies' NLDS roster includes catchers J.T. Realmuto and Garrett Stubbs; Bryce Harper at first base; Bryson Stott at second base; Alec Bohm at third base; Trea Turner as shortstop; outfielders Nick Castellanos, Austin Hays, Brandon Marsh, Johan Rojas; infielders Kody Clemens, Edmundo Sosa, Weston Wilson; designated hitter Kyle Schwarber; starting rotation of Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Cristopher Sánchez, Ranger Suárez; and bullpen members Carlos Estévez, Jeff Hoffman, Matt Strahm, Orion Kerkering, José Alvarado, José Ruiz, Tanner Banks alongside Kolby Allard.