Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Phillies are close to finalizing their Opening Day roster, with 29 active players remaining in camp after recent roster changes. The team optioned Garrett Stubbs, Cal Stevenson, and Kyle Tyler to Triple-A Lehigh Valley and reassigned several others to Minor League camp.

Pitcher Ranger Suárez has not pitched since last Saturday due to a sore lower back but is expected to make a decision on his availability within 48 hours. Manager Rob Thomson indicated that if Suárez is not ready, Taijuan Walker will take his spot in the rotation. Relievers Óscar Mercado or Phillips could fill the last bullpen spot, with Phillips having a slight advantage as he is out of options.

Matt Strahm returned from injury to pitch a scoreless inning against Blue Jays Minor Leaguers and may join the team if he continues to recover well. “It felt good today,” Strahm commented on his performance.

The Phillies have unofficially named Rojas as their fourth outfielder while prospect Justin Crawford will start in Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Crawford's progression suggests readiness for future major league play.

Bench spots appear mostly settled with Rafael Marchán, Edmundo Sosa, and Rojas confirmed. The final bench position will be decided between Clemens and Kennedy, both of whom risk being lost if they do not make the team due to being out of options.