Several Philadelphia Phillies players have a lot at stake this spring training. Pitchers and catchers report to Clearwater on February 12, with the team’s first game scheduled for February 22 against the Detroit Tigers. Three of the organization’s four Top 100 prospects, according to MLB Pipeline, will participate as non-roster invitees. With multiple competitions for 26-man roster spots, the Phillies currently have a full 40-man roster. Several players on that roster are out of minor league options, meaning some are more likely to secure a spot on the major league team than others.
Among them, three players face the highest stakes.
Phillies Spring Training: Top Roster Battles Entering Camp
Kody Clemens
Kody Clemens will be competing for a bench spot this spring. Last season, he delivered in clutch moments at times, posting a .219/.258/.447 line with five home runs and 18 RBI in 43 major league games. He also recorded a 94 OPS+ during the season. Clemens is out of minor league options, meaning he would need to clear waivers to be sent to Triple-A. Given his performance, it’s likely that he would be claimed on waivers if designated for assignment.
If Clemens doesn’t make the 26-man roster, a trade is a real possibility, similar to Jake Cave’s situation last year when he was traded to the Colorado Rockies for cash considerations. Clemens will primarily be competing with Weston Wilson for the bench role.
Johan Rojas
Johan Rojas appears to be in line for a platoon role with Brandon Marsh in center field. However, Rojas will likely have to compete to some extent to make the Opening Day roster. If Rojas struggles that could open the door for Wilson and Clemens to make the team. Rojas had a .243/.279/.332 line with three home runs and 32 RBI in 120 major league games last season. To add to that Rojas had a 69 OPS+ last season. Rojas is an excellent defender and baserunner but has not shown much promise at the plate.
That said, Rojas’ extensive experience in center field gives him an advantage. He also has two remaining minor league options, which could allow him to start the season in Triple-A Lehigh Valley if the competition is close.
Taijuan Walker
Taijuan Walker should have made his final start in a Phillies uniform last season, but he remains with the team as spring training begins. Last year, he posted a 3-7 record with a 7.10 ERA in 19 outings, recording a 57 ERA+. He was moved to the bullpen late in the season, making four relief appearances. This year, Walker will compete for an open bullpen spot and will need to impress during spring training to earn a spot on the roster. Despite the two years and $36 million remaining on his contract, Walker is not exempt from needing to show improvement.
If he doesn’t demonstrate progress, it may be time for the Phillies to release him. It’s somewhat surprising that Walker is still on the team at this point.
Main Photo: © Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
