Assuming Bryson Stott debuts on Friday, he will already make Phillies history.
Less than three years ago the Philadelphia Phillies selected Las Vegas native Bryson Stott as their first-round pick, taking him 14th overall in the 2019 draft.
Fast-forward to April 2022 and the 24-year-old is set to make franchise history.
On Tuesday, multiple reports revealed that Stott and fellow former first-round pick infielder Alec Bohm have been informed they will make the Opening Day roster. It’s particularly impressive that Stott proved himself worthy of the biggest promotion in baseball after only playing one full minor league season.
But according to The Athletic‘s Matt Gelb, the significance of the call-up is so much bigger than an individual achievement: Stott is poised to make franchise history during the April 8 season-opening contest against the Oakland Athletics.
"“No Phillies first-round pick has ever made his major-league debut on Opening Day. Only 10 Phillies have made debuts on Opening Day since 1970. The historical context is wild.”"
Gelb reports that the 10 Phillies players (albeit non-first-round picks) who debuted during the season opener since 1970 include Brock Stassi (2017, PH); Odúbel Herrera (2015, CF); Freddy Galvis (2012, 2B); David Herndon (RHP, 2010); Carlos Silva (2002, RHP); Eddie Oropesa (LHP, 2001); Dane Iorg (PH, 1977); Denny Doyle (2B, 1970); and Larry Bowa (SS, 1970).
Of course, the left-handed-hitting Stott will only make history if he starts or enters the first game later as a pinch hitter and/or fielding replacement. Either of the three scenarios seems to be a lock, however, as the Phillies are currently slated to oppose A’s right-hander Frankie Montas.
BRYSON STOTT IS A PHILLIE 🔥 pic.twitter.com/7ZT8UI3e8Z
— m (@matttadelphia) April 5, 2022
The versatile infielder’s impressive numbers at the plate this spring are what ultimately earned him a spot on the 2022 season-opening roster. Following Tuesday’s action, his combined Grapefruit League slash line is .419/.514/1.095 with 13 hits, one home run and three RBI across 31 at-bats.
Overall, the Phillies are set to bring four former first-round picks north with them to Citizens Bank Park: Stott, Bohm, outfielder Mickey Moniak and starting pitcher Aaron Nola. Stott making his Major League debut — at the same time Kyle Schwarber and Nick Castellanos make their team debuts — will surely be something special.