Phillies open Grapefruit League play with eyes on Bryson Stott, Max Kepler, Alec Bohm, and Rafael Marchan

Drew Smith
February 22, 2025
Phillies
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Spring training is officially here, and while it may have been a chilly morning in Clearwater, the Phillies are set to heat things up on Saturday with their Grapefruit League opener against the Detroit Tigers.

A few regulars will make the 70-minute bus ride to Lakeland, including Alec Bohm, Bryson Stott, and Max Kepler, along with catcher Rafael Marchan and infielder Rodolfo Castro.

The Fightins will send Nabil Crismatt to the mound, a 30-year-old righty battling for the final bullpen spot. He’s expected to throw two innings, with Alan Rangel—a 27-year-old depth starter on the 40-man roster—also getting some work.

Detroit will counter with veteran right-hander Kenta Maeda, making it an early but solid test for the top of the Phillies’ order.

Phillies Players to Watch in Game 1

🔹 Bryson Stott – After gutting through a painful elbow injury for most of 2024, Stott is looking for a bounce-back season at the plate. Fully healthy, he’ll get a fresh start hitting atop the lineup.

🔹 Max Kepler – The Phillies’ newest outfielder is on a one-year, $10 million deal and wants to rebuild his free-agent value after a down year with Minnesota. This will be his first look in Phillies red.

🔹 Alec Bohm – Trade rumors surrounded him all offseason, but Bohm is still here and likely locked into a middle-of-the-order role when the regular season begins.

🔹 Rafael Marchan – With Garrett Stubbs starting the year on the IL, Marchan has the biggest opportunity of his career as J.T. Realmuto’s backup. How he performs this spring could determine his future in the organization.

Phillies Spring Training Broadcast Schedule

If you’re itching to see the Phillies in action, their first two home Spring Training games will be televised:

📺 Sunday, 1:05 p.m. vs. Orioles (NBC Sports Philadelphia)
📺 Monday, 1:05 p.m. vs. Pirates (NBC Sports Philadelphia)

Spring training doesn’t count in the standings, but for players like Marchan, Crismatt, and Kepler, these games couldn’t be more important. It all starts Saturday in Lakeland.

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