Phillies Project 26-Man Roster for Opening Day 2026: A Spring Training Forecast
The wait is almost over as pitchers and catchers set to report to Clearwater in a month's time, signaling the start of another highly anticipated Phillies spring training. While some roster spots are expected to remain unchanged from last season, the bullpen underwent significant changes this offseason, leaving several questions unanswered.
Catcher: With J.T. Realmuto reportedly set on re-signing with the Phillies, it's likely he'll be joined by Rafael Marchán as the team's catching tandem, replacing Garrett Stubbs. The reunion would mark a second stint for Realmuto, who will presumably sign a two- or three-year deal.
Infield: The infield remains largely intact, with Bryce Harper, Bryson Stott, Trea Turner, Alec Bohm, Edmundo Sosa, and Otto Kemp expected to occupy the same spots as last season. If Realmuto signs, there's no reason for the Phillies to trade away Bohm or Stott.
Outfield: Brandon Marsh and Adolis Garcia appear set in their roles, but Justin Crawford still needs to earn his spot after a strong showing in 2024. Nick Castellanos' $20 million contract makes him a likely candidate to remain with the team unless another suitor steps forward. Johan Rojas could potentially replace Castellanos if he's deemed ready for the roster.
Designated hitter: Kyle Schwarber will undoubtedly lead the team offensively, thanks in part to his 56 home runs last season and $150 million contract extension.
Starting Pitchers: Zack Wheeler is expected to return healthy by Opening Day, with Cris Sánchez, Aaron Nola, Jesús Luzardo, and Andrew Painter forming a strong five-man rotation. However, the fifth spot remains uncertain, with Taijuan Walker potentially emerging as an option if Painter doesn't show his mettle.
Relief Pitchers: The bullpen is expected to be well-stocked, but the final two spots will depend on performance in spring training. Johan Duran and Orion Kerkering are likely contenders for these roles, while José Alvarado, Brad Keller, Tanner Banks, Jonathan Bowlan, Zach McCambley, and Zack Pop vie for a spot alongside them.
While there's still much to be determined as the Phillies approach Opening Day 2026, one thing is clear: this team has immense talent and potential. The question now is how it will all come together in April.
The wait is almost over as pitchers and catchers set to report to Clearwater in a month's time, signaling the start of another highly anticipated Phillies spring training. While some roster spots are expected to remain unchanged from last season, the bullpen underwent significant changes this offseason, leaving several questions unanswered.
Catcher: With J.T. Realmuto reportedly set on re-signing with the Phillies, it's likely he'll be joined by Rafael Marchán as the team's catching tandem, replacing Garrett Stubbs. The reunion would mark a second stint for Realmuto, who will presumably sign a two- or three-year deal.
Infield: The infield remains largely intact, with Bryce Harper, Bryson Stott, Trea Turner, Alec Bohm, Edmundo Sosa, and Otto Kemp expected to occupy the same spots as last season. If Realmuto signs, there's no reason for the Phillies to trade away Bohm or Stott.
Outfield: Brandon Marsh and Adolis Garcia appear set in their roles, but Justin Crawford still needs to earn his spot after a strong showing in 2024. Nick Castellanos' $20 million contract makes him a likely candidate to remain with the team unless another suitor steps forward. Johan Rojas could potentially replace Castellanos if he's deemed ready for the roster.
Designated hitter: Kyle Schwarber will undoubtedly lead the team offensively, thanks in part to his 56 home runs last season and $150 million contract extension.
Starting Pitchers: Zack Wheeler is expected to return healthy by Opening Day, with Cris Sánchez, Aaron Nola, Jesús Luzardo, and Andrew Painter forming a strong five-man rotation. However, the fifth spot remains uncertain, with Taijuan Walker potentially emerging as an option if Painter doesn't show his mettle.
Relief Pitchers: The bullpen is expected to be well-stocked, but the final two spots will depend on performance in spring training. Johan Duran and Orion Kerkering are likely contenders for these roles, while José Alvarado, Brad Keller, Tanner Banks, Jonathan Bowlan, Zach McCambley, and Zack Pop vie for a spot alongside them.
While there's still much to be determined as the Phillies approach Opening Day 2026, one thing is clear: this team has immense talent and potential. The question now is how it will all come together in April.
but that fifth spot is still a mystery 
what if Painter just gets a lil too cold and Taijuan Walker comes through? 
also, can we talk about Kyle Schwarber's 56 home runs last season tho? that dude's for real 
! With J.T. Realmuto re-signing, I think they're gonna have a solid catching combo with Rafael Marchán. Bryce Harper's still got that superstar swagger and Bryson Stott's skills are on point 
. The rotation looks fire with Cris Sánchez, Aaron Nola, and Jesús Luzardo - we'll just have to see what happens with that fifth starter spot 
. Kyle schwarber is gonna crush it as our dh leadoff hitter again 
. I'm a little worried about that 5th starter spot tho, can cris sanchez get it done? 
. The bullpen looks stacked too, but I'm curious to see how the five-man rotation shakes out. With Wheeler and Nola in the mix, they've got a legit shot at making some noise in April 
. also, what's with the uncertainty about the fifth starting spot? shouldn't they just stick with Painter like they did last season? 
and i'm all for Johan Rojas getting a chance in the outfield but Castellanos' contract is a big deal 
. still rooting for the phillys tho, can't wait to see what the 26-man roster looks like in march 
I imagine the coaches and GMs are already thinking about who's gonna get which spot on the depth chart 
And what if Painter doesn't show up? 
Taijuan Walker could be the unexpected hero! 
. And Bryce Harper's still our star 
️. I'm excited to see how it all plays out in April 
. Can't wait to see how it all shakes out in spring training and on Opening Day! 
️
also, what happened to ryan taylor from last season?? he kinda disappeared 