With Rojas unavailable, the team must determine who will take the roster spot he was expected to fill. Several experienced players are competing for the final position, but manager Rob Thomson recently introduced an unexpected option.
According to reports from The Athletic journalist Charlotte Varnes, catcher Garrett Stubbs has been practicing at multiple defensive positions, including both the infield and outfield.
Thomson suggested that Stubbs could potentially claim the final roster spot if the team decides to carry three catchers. The 32-year-old has reportedly been getting reps at first base, third base, and left field, with the outfield becoming a particularly important area due to the current roster need.
Stubbs was originally selected by the Houston Astros in the eighth round of the 2015 MLB Draft out of the University of Southern California. He made his Major League debut in 2019 and later gained some experience playing the outfield while in Houston before being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies after the 2021 season.
Across parts of seven MLB seasons, Stubbs has appeared in 197 games and recorded seven home runs with a .215/.293/.310 batting line. His best offensive stretch came in 2022 when he batted .264 with five home runs in 46 games for Philadelphia. However, his offensive production has declined in recent years, with only two home runs recorded between 2023 and 2025.
Despite limited playing time just five games last season Stubbs still brings notable athleticism, including above-average sprint speed for a catcher. If he can successfully transition into a more versatile defensive role, he could become a useful bench option for a contending Phillies squad.
At catcher, the starting role remains firmly with All-Star J. T. Realmuto, who re-signed with Philadelphia on a three-year deal. Rafael Marchán is widely expected to serve as the primary backup thanks to his strong defensive metrics and switch-hitting ability.
Because most teams rarely carry three catchers on the 26-man roster, Stubbs may need to secure a role elsewhere most likely in left field to remain on the team.
Currently, the Phillies’ projected starting outfield features Brandon Marsh in left field, Justin Crawford in center field, and Adolis García in right field. Stubbs is unlikely to play center or right due to arm strength and speed limitations, making left field his most realistic defensive option.
He will face competition from utility player Dylan Moore recently acquired after being designated for assignment by the Seattle Mariners and outfielder Bryan De La Cruz, who brings significant experience with 427 outfield appearances between 2021 and 2025.
Although Stubbs may still be a long shot to secure the roster spot, his versatility could make him an important depth option in the minor leagues should injuries arise during the season.
Leave a Reply