Outfielder Johan Rojas is now the third member of the Philadelphia Phillies to be suspended for taking a performance-enhancing substance within the past year. Reliever José Alvarado was popped last May, while outfielder Max Kepler tested positive in January. Rojas was expected to contend for an outfield job this spring, but his failed test now leaves him out of the picture for potentially 80 games. The surprise turn of events complicates the future of the outfield picture, but it also leaves current outfielders Justin Crawford and Brandon Marsh time to strengthen their relationship.
The looming decision on Rojas is another cloud over the Phillies' clubhouse, but what it's also done is strengthen the bond that Crawford and Marsh have developed over spring training. Marsh has been in the Phillies outfield mix for a few seasons now, but him building rapport with the rookie Crawford limits the damage of losing Rojas for half of the season. Rojas is currently appealing the decision, but there is no guarantee that he'll still be able to play the entire season. Now, the Phillies outfield can accommodate both Marsh and Crawford at the same time. They're no longer pitted against each other.
Justin Crawford, Brandon Marsh sharing Phillies outfield is a true silver lining
Crawford is expected to be the Phillies Opening Day center fielder in just a few weeks. Drafted 17th overall in the 2022 MLB Draft, Crawford's arrival has been long-awaited after his success in the minor leagues. Marsh has been with the Phillies since he was traded from the Los Angeles Angels at the 2022 trade deadline. He's again expected to play another big role in the outfield, potentially getting to play alongside Crawford all season long.
Crawford is still a kid at just 22 years old. He has a lot to learn playing in a city like Philadelphia. It can be intense coming into camp, especially when he's expected to lock down a position on a club he hasn't played any meaningful games with yet. Marsh has been right by Crawford's side, helping him adapt to his new role and even buying him a suit to look fresh for the national spotlight, per Alex Coffey of The Philadelphia Inquirer (subscription required).
Marsh knows what it's like coming into the big leagues as a kid, trying to do everything possible to win for your team. It can be a lot to process while also not trying to feel the weight of the world on your shoulders. Marsh came up with the Angels at 23 years old and learned from three-time MVP winner Mike Trout and other veterans during his time in Anaheim.
“I was trying to be Super Man,” Marsh said, per Coffey. “They helped ease the game for me. And I’m just trying to do the same thing for J Craw.”
The Phillies have fallen short recently when it comes to young impact on their major league roster. They've lacked that competitive youth. Crawford should bring a lot of excitement with his bat-to-ball skills and blazing speed from the center field position. As the anticipation grows, it's vital for Crawford to be able to lean on Marsh and have his guidance through his first journey through the big leagues. Now, without the burden of trying to juggle Rojas' playing time, they can play freely alongside one another. That'll make the transition much easier.