Philly Leader

CLEARWATER, Fla. — Weston Wilson was considered a leading candidate for the Phillies' final bench spot this spring due to his versatility and right-handed batting. However, his prospects were halted by a Grade 2 left oblique strain suffered while swinging in the batting cage at BayCare Ballpark on Friday. This injury will sideline him for at least six weeks, ending his chances of making the Opening Day roster.

“It’s very frustrating,” Wilson commented on Sunday morning at BayCare Ballpark. “I spent a lot of time this offseason getting my body in the best shape possible. Just a freak accident. I didn’t feel anything before, so, like, nothing warning me. Disappointment, I would say, is the biggest word. It sucks. I was really looking forward to starting the year. I felt really good about breaking with the team.”

Wilson's absence widens the competition for the Phillies' bench positions as they have a lineup that leans heavily on left-handed hitters and needed Wilson's balance.

Edmundo Sosa is expected to make the team and will be tested in the outfield during spring training to see if he can provide another right-handed hitting option there.

Johan Rojas is likely set to join as the fourth outfielder while Rafael Marchán or Garrett Stubbs will fill in as backup catcher.

For the remaining spot, candidates include Buddy Kennedy, Kody Clemens, and Cal Stevenson from the 40-man roster. Kennedy's chances are favorable since he bats right-handed and has been working in the outfield this spring alongside Clemens who also plays both infield and outfield positions. Both Kennedy and Clemens lack options which might influence final roster decisions.

"Buddy comes into play a little bit more now," said Phillies manager Rob Thomson on Saturday. "If Sosa can play the outfield, maybe it's a left-handed bat. I think we've got some options still."

The Phillies might also consider acquiring a right-handed-hitting corner outfielder before Opening Day as they did with Cristian Pache in 2023 and David Dellucci in 2006.

Despite these developments, Wilson remains determined to return stronger: “Already been rehabbing,” he said. “Gonna come back stronger and healthier, ready to play this year and help this team win ballgames. I want to win a World Series."