Phillies DFA Cameron Rupp as opening day roster becomes clearer

A long-time member of the Phillies has lost out on a bench job

Cameron Rupp, one of the Phillies longest-tenured players, was designated for assignment Sunday morning with less than a week until the club opens the season in Atlanta.

Right-handed pitcher Drew Hutchinson was added to the 40-man roster and is likely to make the 25-man roster in light of Mark Leiter Jr. and Jerad Eickhoff’s injuries.

The organization now has 10 days to either trade, release, or fully waive Rupp to another team. If Rupp is not claimed by another team, which is unlikely given his experience, the Phillies could send him to Lehigh Valley as an insurance policy.

MIAMI, FL – AUGUST 31: Cameron Rupp #29 of the Philadelphia Phillies hits during a game against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park on August 31, 2017 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

Rupp entered camp as one of three catchers on the 40-man roster, and with top prospect Jorge Alfaro locked into the starting role Rupp and former prospect Andrew Knapp were set in a battle of the backstops.

The 29-year-old Rupp hit a disappointing .189 with one home run in 37 at-bats during spring training. Knapp’s hitting was equally unimpressive with a .179 average, but versatility is ultimately what kept Knapp around. Manager Gabe Kapler has preached versatility since day one in camp, and Knapp’s ability to switch-hit and play first base likely gave him the upper hand over the more experienced Rupp.

Rupp was one of three players (Cesar Hernandez and Luis Garcia) to have played under managers Ryne Sandberg, Pete Mackanin, and Kapler since 2013. Garcia and Hernandez also played under Charlie Manuel before his departure midway through the 2013 season.