The Phillies’ management office’s approach to the team this winter has been the subject of much discussion.
For weeks, there have been circulating rumors, which should be treated with caution. Generally speaking, there is currently a definite need in the outfield and bullpen.
Backup catcher is an obscure position that the front office will attempt to resolve before the upcoming season begins. On any team’s roster, it is not the most crucial position. But having a decent one is vital. Additionally, Philadelphia is placing a greater priority on backup catcher than it has since Realmuto joined the team prior to the 2019 season due to the possibility that he will play less in 2025.
The Phillies’ announcement on Friday that they had reached an agreement on a one-year contract with Garrett Stubbs gave some clarification on the position. He was considered a possible non-tender candidate and has been the team’s backup catcher for the past three seasons.
There is no assurance that Stubbs will play in the major leagues next season. The Phillies want to retain him, which is why they signed him. He will most likely compete as the team’s backup backstop throughout spring training.
During his end-of-year press conference last month, Dave Dombrowski, president of baseball operations, did not name a backup catcher. Dombrowski remarked, “I believe we have some people capable of accomplishing that internally.” However, I cannot guarantee that they will be hired. All we need to do is maintain an open
Marchan and Stubbs are both reliable behind the plate. “We have performed admirably defensively. Regarding the defense of the internal candidates, Dombrowski stated, “I do not have any concerns about that.”
“We like Marchan a lot; we think he is a genuine good catcher, and he is showed some offensive prowess also,” the seasoned executive stated of the player.
Additionally, Dombrowski pointed out that the 25-year-old has no more minor-league options. That might undoubtedly be taken into consideration when making decisions in the spring. Stubbs does have one more choice. Additionally, he cannot reject to be sent down because he has less than five years of service time.
Marchan and Stubbs are highly valued by the Phillies. Next season, Realmuto will see the most of the playing time. However, it makes logical to reduce Realmuto’s playing time as he gets older—he turns 34 in March. He would stay more youthful all season long. After having knee surgery in mid-June 2024, Realmuto missed just over a month of play.
The backup catcher will become more crucial than in prior years if the Phillies use Realmuto less in 2025. Right now, there does not appear to be a clear contender for that position. However, Stubbs’ retention at least indicates that the Phillies consider the 31-year-old a viable alternative.
