We're just a day away from the start of spring training, and the Philadelphia Phillies have plenty of competition to sort out before the regular season. Top prospects and new additions are looking to make a good impression beginning this week in Clearwater, Florida. But there are also established players who'll make the club but are already on thin ice before spring training even starts.
The Phillies have faced criticism from the fans and local media this offseason for "running it back" after re-signing Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto this winter. However, some players outside their veteran core will face competition for their jobs in spring training or during the regular season.
3 Phillies players who are entering spring training on thin ice
Orion Kerkering
The addition of Brad Keller may cut into Orion Kerkering's role with the Phillies. Keller is coming off his best year as a reliever, as he compiled a 2.07 ERA, a 0.96 WHIP, 75 strikeouts, and 22 walks in 68 contests with the Chicago Cubs. Kerkering can be hit or miss, tending to struggle when he enters an inning with runners already on base. Phillies manager Rob Thomson could favor turning to the more experienced Keller over Kerkering as both are right-handers.
Kerkering could be on track for more late-inning work following the trade of reliever Matt Strahm earlier in the offseason. However, Keller will present competition for Kerkering's current role. Kerkering will still see plenty of innings this season, however, which ones and how frequently is up for debate, especially if Keller pitches like he did last year.
Alec Bohm
Alec Bohm has survived another offseason of trade rumors. However, the third baseman will be a free agent next winter and is unlikely to re-sign with the Phillies. President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski could end up trading him by the Aug. 3 deadline. Philadelphia may want to promote its top infield prospect, Aidan Miller, during the summer if he looks ready for the majors.
Miller, a natural shortstop, will either be used at third base or potentially at second due to Trea Turner playing shortstop. Bohm will start the year with the Phillies, but his time is nearing an end.
Taijuan Walker
Taijuan Walker has transitioned to a spot starter/relief role since the midway point of the 2024 season. He has been too erratic to be used exclusively in their starting rotation. The right-hander may be used as a starter early in the regular season if Zack Wheeler isn't available, as he works his way back from surgery for venous thoracic outlet syndrome.
The Phillies are hoping top prospect Andrew Painter earns a spot in their starting rotation. If he does, Walker will be the odd man out and be used out of the bullpen. Injuries to other starters are how he'll see time in the rotation.