Phillies Spring Training
The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to remain one of baseball’s top teams, with some projections placing them at the top of the National League East, even after a relatively quiet offseason without a major splash. While changes are always potential before Spring Training kicks off, most of the roster appears set.

The starting rotation and lineup are firmly in place, and the bullpen is largely settled. However, a few intriguing players could make waves when baseball activities begin on Feb. 12, the first day of workouts for pitchers and catchers.

Here are four players to watch during Spring Training who could contend for a spot on the Opening Day roster.
 
Andrew Painter
The team’s top prospect endured a challenging two-year hiatus due to an elbow injury, but his recent return to the Arizona Fall League showcased his resilience and talent. He displayed no signs of rust, and his strong showing in Arizona was an encouraging step forward in his development.

To ensure his health and readiness for the long season, the team plans to manage his workload carefully, keeping him out of Grapefruit League games this spring. This approach is designed to conserve his arm for meaningful innings later in the year, with a potential MLB debut targeted for the summer.

Even though he won’t compete in games, his presence in camp will still be noteworthy. Fans and scouts alike will be eager to watch him during batting practice sessions, where he can continue refining his skills. Sports betting platforms like FanDuel might catch attention as fans look for the latest updates on his potential to break into the majors.

With no immediate pressure and a structured plan in place, this Spring Training will serve as a critical learning experience for the young pitcher. It’s a chance for him to absorb knowledge from veteran players and coaches, laying the foundation for a successful transition to the big leagues when the time comes.
 
Nabil Crismatt
For three consecutive years, the Phillies have seen a relief pitcher on a minor league deal stand out in Spring Training and earn a spot on their Opening Day roster. This trend highlights the team’s ability to identify overlooked talent and turn it into a valuable bullpen asset. With Carlos Estevez still unsigned and Jeff Hoffman moving on to another team, there’s a strong chance this could happen again in 2025.

One intriguing candidate to watch is Nabil Crismatt. The right-hander demonstrated his potential during the 2022 season with the San Diego Padres, recording an impressive 2.94 ERA over 67.1 innings. His ability to handle a significant workload while maintaining effectiveness makes him a viable option for the Phillies’ bullpen.

Although Crismatt has spent most of the past two seasons in the minors, he briefly appeared with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024, showcasing flashes of his ability at the big-league level. His combination of prior MLB experience, durability, and potential for upside makes him a strong contender to break camp with the team and fill a key role in Philadelphia’s relief corps. Spring Training will allow him to prove he belongs in the mix.
 
Justin Crawford
Justin Crawford will join the Phillies’ MLB players during Spring Training, where he will have the chance to gain valuable experience at the big-league level. While he is not expected to make the Opening Day roster, he is projected to begin the 2025 season at Double-A, continuing their development.

Top prospects always draw plenty of attention, and Crawford is no exception. As an outfielder, his presence is particularly notable given the team’s current depth concerns in that area. Crawford still has some polishing to do before reaching the big leagues, but his athleticism and potential make him a player to watch closely during camp.

If Crawford performs well this season, he could position himself for a late-season call-up. His speed and defensive versatility would make him a valuable asset off the bench, especially as the team pushes toward the postseason. Spring Training will allow him to impress the coaching staff and build momentum heading into the year.

Paul McIntosh
The backup catcher position is shaping into an interesting competition this spring, with multiple players vying for the role. Among the contenders is McIntosh, who joined the organization as part of the trade that brought Jesus Luzardo from the Miami Marlins.

While J.T. Realmuto is locked in as the team’s starting catcher, the battle for the backup job will likely come down to Rafael Marchan and Garrett Stubbs, who have MLB experience. Catching depth will be critical for the Phillies, as four players got time behind the plate last season. Injuries and the demands of the position make it essential for the team to have reliable options beyond the starting duo.

Even if McIntosh begins the 2025 season at Triple-A, his presence provides additional depth and flexibility. Starting the year in the minors would keep him ready as a potential call-up in case of injuries or other roster needs, ensuring the Phillies are well-prepared for the season's grind. Spring Training will allow him to make an impression and potentially put himself in the conversation for a future big-league role.

As the Philadelphia Phillies head into Spring Training, the foundation of their roster is already solidified, positioning them as one of the strongest teams in the National League East. However, the excitement surrounding camp goes beyond the established core. Prospects like Andrew Painter and Justin Crawford bring intrigue with their potential to contribute down the line, while Nabil Crismatt and Paul McIntosh offer opportunities to enhance depth and versatility.

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