The Phillies are set to embark on their 2026 season, and the question on everyone's mind is: who will be part of the 26-man roster when they take the field on Opening Day? The answer isn't entirely clear-cut, but one thing is for sure - the bullpen underwent a significant makeover this offseason.
While the core of the team remains intact, with J.T. Realmuto and Rafael Marchán at the catcher position, Bryce Harper, Bryson Stott, Trea Turner, Alec Bohm, Edmundo Sosa, and Otto Kemp taking up the infield spots, the outfield is where things get really interesting. Brandon Marsh, Adolis Garcia, Justin Crawford, and Nick Castellanos are all vying for space, with Garcia being a wildcard in this mix.
The starting pitcher rotation looks solid, with Zack Wheeler, Cris Sánchez, Aaron Nola, Jesús Luzardo, and Andrew Painter looking to form the backbone of the team. But what about Wheeler's health? If he returns from injury on Opening Day, it could significantly impact the pitching rotation.
In terms of relief pitchers, Johan Duran, Orion Kerkering, José Alvarado, Brad Keller, Tanner Banks, Jonathan Bowlan, Zach McCambley, and Zack Pop are all fighting for spots in the bullpen. The final two spots are up for grabs, but it's likely that McCambley and Pop will be given priority due to their minor league options.
One player who is almost a lock for the roster is Kyle Schwarber, who signed a five-year, $150 million contract this offseason. With 56 homers last year, he's already proven himself as a force to be reckoned with.
Overall, while some positions are still up in the air, one thing is clear - the Phillies are looking strong heading into their 2026 season.
While the core of the team remains intact, with J.T. Realmuto and Rafael Marchán at the catcher position, Bryce Harper, Bryson Stott, Trea Turner, Alec Bohm, Edmundo Sosa, and Otto Kemp taking up the infield spots, the outfield is where things get really interesting. Brandon Marsh, Adolis Garcia, Justin Crawford, and Nick Castellanos are all vying for space, with Garcia being a wildcard in this mix.
The starting pitcher rotation looks solid, with Zack Wheeler, Cris Sánchez, Aaron Nola, Jesús Luzardo, and Andrew Painter looking to form the backbone of the team. But what about Wheeler's health? If he returns from injury on Opening Day, it could significantly impact the pitching rotation.
In terms of relief pitchers, Johan Duran, Orion Kerkering, José Alvarado, Brad Keller, Tanner Banks, Jonathan Bowlan, Zach McCambley, and Zack Pop are all fighting for spots in the bullpen. The final two spots are up for grabs, but it's likely that McCambley and Pop will be given priority due to their minor league options.
One player who is almost a lock for the roster is Kyle Schwarber, who signed a five-year, $150 million contract this offseason. With 56 homers last year, he's already proven himself as a force to be reckoned with.
Overall, while some positions are still up in the air, one thing is clear - the Phillies are looking strong heading into their 2026 season.