What else should we know about Spring Training in Clearwater?
Click here for almost everything you need to know about Clearwater, including restaurant recommendations.
Who are some new faces fans should know?
Well, the Phillies acquired only five players from outside the organization this offseason, and none are considered favorites to make the Opening Day roster. Left-hander Kolby Allard signed a $1 million deal last month. He will provide rotation depth behind Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Ranger Suárez, Taijuan Walker and Cristopher Sánchez.
Other new additions to the 40-man roster include right-handers Max Castillo, Michael Mercado and Michael Rucker, and infielder Diego Castillo.
Will the Phillies make any more moves before Opening Day?
It seems likely that they do something. But how big? Sources said the market must change drastically for the Phillies to sign one of the game’s remaining big free agents, although they do like right-hander Jordan Montgomery on a one- to three-year deal, nothing long term. A report last week said the Phillies have been talking to the Guardians about Emmanuel Clase, but Philadelphia president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski said Friday that, “We do not have any ongoing conversations for bullpen guys.” The club could use another bench player, but right now, Dombrowski said those players are looking for guaranteed playing time, which the Phillies cannot provide.
Who are some of the top prospects invited to Major League camp?
The Phillies have invited three of their Top 30 Prospects to big league camp: right-hander Mick Abel (No. 2 according to MLB Pipeline), right-hander Griff McGarry (No. 5) and outfielder Carlos De La Cruz (No. 6).
None will make the Opening Day roster unless something unexpected happens. But the Phillies hope to see Abel and McGarry take significant steps forward this season to put themselves in contention for in-season promotions, if needed.
