Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Phillies are gearing up for their Grapefruit League opener against the Detroit Tigers on Saturday in Lakeland, Florida. The team recently opened camp on February 12 and will soon showcase notable players like Alec Bohm, Bryson Stott, and Max Kepler. Non-roster invitee Nabil Crismatt is set to start the game.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson expressed satisfaction with Taijuan Walker's recent performance during live batting practice at BayCare Ballpark. Despite a challenging previous season with a 3-7 record and a 7.10 ERA over 19 appearances, Walker showed promise by striking out J.T. Realmuto, Stott, and Kepler consecutively. "Fantastic," said Thomson. "I’m so proud of him."

Walker is competing for a spot in the Phillies' rotation, which includes Zack Wheeler, Cristopher Sánchez, Aaron Nola, Ranger Suárez, and Jesús Luzardo. Top prospect Andrew Painter may join later this summer if needed. Walker could also potentially secure a position as an eighth reliever in the bullpen.

In other team developments, catcher Rafael Marchán will start against the Tigers on Saturday while Garrett Stubbs will play Sunday against the Orioles. Both are vying to be J.T. Realmuto's backup catcher.

Weston Wilson was initially favored to join the Phillies' bench due to his versatility but experienced discomfort in his oblique during batting practice. His condition is being evaluated, which could affect his chances of making the team.

The Phillies' bench competition remains open with Edmundo Sosa as a likely candidate alongside Marchán or Stubbs. Johan Rojas is expected to be the fourth outfielder while Kody Clemens, Buddy Kennedy, and Cal Stevenson are also contenders.

Top prospects Aidan Miller and Justin Crawford will travel with the team to Lakeland on Saturday despite not being expected to join the major league roster until next season.