The road back for top Phillies infield prospect Aidan Miller is going to be a cautious one. The 21-year-old, who’s currently a key figure in the Phillies' pipeline alongside prospects like Justin Crawford and Andrew Painter, has been sidelined this spring due to a nagging back issue. As of Monday, Miller is still not participating in baseball activities, according to Ty Daubert of Phillies Nation.
Miller, the Phillies' first-round pick from the 2023 draft, seemed poised to make a push for the big leagues, especially with Alec Bohm entering a contract year. Last season, Miller showcased his potential at Triple-A Lehigh Valley, hitting .333 with a home run, two doubles, nine walks, a 1.033 OPS, and seven stolen bases over just eight games. If healthy, he might have been putting pressure on Bohm this spring.
Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski provided an update from Clearwater, noting, “He continues to work out. Not much baseball...
He’s running, jogging, doing those types of things. A very slow progress - purposely.
We’re doing that with him.” Miller was invited to spring training but has since returned to the minors and consulted with a team doctor in Philadelphia.
Meanwhile, Zack Wheeler is making strides in his comeback. The veteran right-hander threw a simulated game, tossing 29 pitches over two innings, according to The Athletic's Matt Gelb.
Wheeler’s return is eagerly anticipated after last season was cut short due to a blood clot and subsequent surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome. He’s expected to be at Citizens Bank Park for the Phillies' Opening Day festivities, a moment that will likely be celebrated by fans who remember his contributions.
Wheeler is set to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Lehigh Valley this Saturday, pitching three innings, per The Philadelphia Inquirer's Lochlahn March. This is a promising step toward his return to the Phillies' rotation.
In other Phillies news, Rafael Marchán has secured his spot as the backup catcher to J.T. Realmuto, which means the team is moving on from Garrett Stubbs.
Stubbs, known for his energetic presence and role as the team’s DJ, helped turn "Dancing On My Own" into a Phillies postseason anthem. However, with Marchán ready to step up and Stubbs out of minor-league options, the Phillies are exploring trade options for him before the season begins.
If no trade is found, they may have to designate him for assignment.