Phillies send Garrett Stubbs to Triple-A, hand backup catcher role to Rafael Marchán

RAFAEL MARCHAN – The Garrett Stubbs era in Philadelphia is over—at least for now. Stubbs, the fan-favorite, light-hitting backup catcher, will start the season in Triple-A, marking the end of his three-year run as JT Realmuto’s understudy and clubhouse hype man.

Phillies option Garrett Stubbs to Lehigh Valley (AAA)

Prior to today’s game, the Phillies optioned C Garrett Stubbs to Lehigh Valley (AAA)

— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) March 20, 2025

If you’ve been paying attention, the battle for the backup catcher position was pretty much over before it started. The Phillies are extremely left-handed on offense and with Kody Clemens likely earning the final bench spot, keeping Stubbs didn’t make much sense in the first place.

On top of that Rafael Marchán is the younger option who happens to also be a righty and an overall better hitter. Marchán was also out of minor league options, meaning if the Phillies did send him down, he could have been lost to another team while Stubbs had an option left.

Rafael Marchán vs. Garrett Stubbs: The Numbers Tell the Story

• Garrett Stubbs: 31-years old. 433 PA. .222/.305/.324 Slash Line. 7 HR. 39 RBI.
• Rafael Marchán: 25 years-old. 56 PA. .279/.333/.477 Slash Line. 5 HR. 13 RBI.

Rafael Marchán may be unproven at the big-league level, but his bat already looks more promising than Stubbs’. Add in the fact that he’s improving defensively and again, is out of options, and the Phillies had no real choice but to keep him.

Rafael Marchán is the new backup Phillies catcher.

The team optioned Garrett Stubbs to Lehigh Valley. pic.twitter.com/V6LahHXGR5

— John Foley (@2008Philz) March 20, 2025

The Backup Catcher Spot Just Got More Important

For the last few years, backup catcher in Philly was one of the least important jobs in baseball. JT Realmuto is one of the biggest workhorses behind the plate, and Stubbs spent more time leading clubhouse celebrations than making meaningful contributions on the field.

But now, at 34 years old, Realmuto is going to need more time off to stay fresh for the postseason. He might even see more time at first base or DH which means the Phillies need a backup who can actually hit, and Marchán has a chance to turn this part-time role into a long-term gig.

For Garrett Stubbs, this isn’t necessarily the end. If injuries hit or the Phillies decide they need a third catcher, he’ll be first in line for a call-up. But for now, Marchán is the guy and if he plays well, Stubbs’ days in Philly might be numbered for good.

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