The Philadelphia Phillies' Grapefruit League opener at home brought some unexpected news for fans tuning in. During an in-dugout interview, Bryce Harper casually mentioned that top prospect Aidan Miller wasn't in peak health, sparking curiosity about the young player's status.
Miller, the Phillies' top MLB Pipeline prospect and ranked 23rd overall, has been turning heads in training camp. Anticipation is high for his MLB debut this season, and fans were eager to see him take the field as spring training games began.
However, Miller's absence from Saturday's lineup against the Toronto Blue Jays in Dunedin raised eyebrows. While fellow prospect Justin Crawford made a strong impression, many were looking forward to seeing Miller get some game action.
The mystery was cleared up after the Phillies' 4-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates when manager Rob Thomson addressed the situation. According to MLB.com's Todd Zolecki, Miller is dealing with back soreness, prompting the team to proceed with caution.
"Phillies prospect Aidan Miller has a sore back," Zolecki reported. "The Phillies want to be careful with him, so he’s taking it easy this week and receiving treatment. If he were healthy, he would’ve played in Dunedin."
Thomson mentioned that Miller experienced back soreness recently, though it didn't appear to be from an on-field incident. Despite being hit by a pitch during live batting practice, it wasn't in the back, although the possibility remains that he might have tweaked something while dodging it.
With camp still in its early stages, there's ample time for Miller to recover and participate in games. The Phillies are taking a conservative approach, ensuring Miller's long-term health isn't compromised.
"We’re just being super cautious with him, obviously, this early in camp," Thomson emphasized. "He’s just getting treatment."
Miller, at just 21 years old, is expected to see significant time at third base and shortstop during spring training. While his future as a potential replacement for Alec Bohm at third base is anticipated, whether that transition happens this season or next remains to be seen.