3 reasons for Phillies fans to be excited with spring training underway

Spring training has started for the Philadelphia Phillies in Clearwater, Florida. The Phillies enter another season with high expectations, despite having underachieved in the playoffs the last two years by losing in the NLDS after winning consecutive NL East division championships. There are multiple reasons for the fan base to be excited at the start of spring training.

The Phillies organization is hoping this is the season everything comes together and they win the World Series. However, there is a long way to go between now and then. What are some reasons for the fan base to look forward to spring training?

Here are 3 reasons for Phillies fans to be excited now that spring training has begun

Zack Wheeler is gradually working his way back to the starting rotation

Zack Wheeler is working his way back from surgery for venous thoracic outlet syndrome. Videos surfaced on social media of the veteran starter throwing during the first day of spring training. While manager Rob Thomson ruled out the 35-year-old for Opening Day, Wheeler may be able to make his debut early in the regular season (subscription required).

While Cristopher Sánchez and Jesús Luzardo give the Phillies a dominant duo in the team's rotation, their starting pitching will be even better if Wheeler returns to his elite form. Fans can look forward to the right-hander's progression from his injury during spring training.

Prospects debuting with the Phillies this season

Unlike in previous years, the veteran Phillies club is anticipated to have contributions from top prospects such as Justin Crawford and Andrew Painter at the start of the regular season. Crawford is expected to be their starting center fielder, and Painter will be featured in the starting rotation. It's possible that Aidan Miller also makes his major league debut during mid-to-late summer in the infield.

Fans will get to see the club's top three prospects all play during spring training. Outfielder Gabriel Rincones Jr. is another young player yet to debut in the majors who will see playing time. He could also appear with the Phillies this season. Philadelphia will be getting much-needed youth that will give the club a different look in 2026.

Players who'll earn bigger roles due to the World Baseball Classic

With the Phillies having several players scheduled to participate in the World Baseball Classic, many other players on the roster will have bigger roles during this period. Otto Kemp, Bryan De La Cruz, Rincones, and Painter are a few players with opportunities to take advantage.

Kemp and De La Cruz are competing for a platoon role in left field opposite Brandon Marsh. Kemp is a utility player who has the chance for more playing time if he earns the spot in left field. De La Cruz has more major league experience than Kemp, primarily with the Miami Marlins. De La Cruz's previous experience in the majors could give him an edge for the role if he does well in spring training.

Rincones can take advantage of a bigger role with the organization during the WBC. Painter will have the chance to be one of the Phillies' main starters with Wheeler unavailable, and Aaron Nola, Cristopher Sánchez, and Taijuan Walker all participating in the WBC. Jesús Luzardo is a reserve on Team Venezuela's roster and may not be used in the WBC. Kemp, De La Cruz, Rincones, and Painter are just a few players who'll have opportunities to take advantage of with Philadelphia in March.