CLEARWATER, Fla. - As the Phillies gear up for their season opener against the Texas Rangers, they're actively seeking a trade partner for Garrett Stubbs. With Rafael Marchán stepping in as the backup to veteran J.T. Realmuto, Stubbs finds himself in a tough spot-he's out of options and can't simply be sent to Triple-A.
Dave Dombrowski, the Phillies' president of baseball operations, is on the hunt to find a team that could use Stubbs' skills on their major-league roster. "He knows he’s not going to make the club," Dombrowski noted. The clock is ticking, with the Opening Day roster deadline looming on Wednesday.
Stubbs, who has been a fan favorite, held the No. 2 catcher spot behind Realmuto for three seasons. Last year, he spent most of his time with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, where he posted a .753 OPS in 71 games.
He had a brief stint with the Phillies in September, logging just one at-bat. Despite his .221 batting average and .627 OPS over his four-year Phillies tenure, Stubbs has been praised for his work with pitchers.
If no trade is made by Wednesday, the Phillies will have to designate Stubbs for assignment. This move allows them a few more days to negotiate a deal, but ultimately, they may need to place him on waivers. If Stubbs clears waivers, there's a chance he could return to the Phillies on a minor-league contract.
While waiting for his fate to unfold, Stubbs will remain at the team’s facilities and is set to play in the Phillies’ spring game against the Yankees on Sunday, with potential action on Monday as well.
This spring, Stubbs showcased his versatility by playing in left field and third base, hoping to snag a utility role. However, it was Dylan Moore who clinched the final bench spot.
Moore, a former Gold Glove Award winner known for his defensive prowess across the diamond, was added to the 40-man roster on Sunday. His ability to provide rest days for players without demanding much playing time made him the preferred choice.
The Phillies' bench is now set with Marchán, Moore, Otto Kemp, and Edmundo Sosa, while the regular lineup will feature stars like Realmuto, Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, Bryce Harper, and others ready to make an impact this season.