The Phillies’ Opening Day has been delayed by 24 hours due to rain, but the team released their initial regular-season roster on Thursday afternoon. The roster consists of 26 players, including five pitchers, two catchers, five infielders, four outfielders, one utility player and one designated hitter. Notable pitchers on the roster are Jose Alvarado, Aaron Nola and Zack Wheeler. Catchers J.T. Realmuto and Garrett Stubbs are also included along with infielders Alec Bohm and Bryce Harper. Outfielders Nick Castellanos and Cristian Pache are also part of the lineup.
However, several right-handed pitchers were placed on the injured list, including Taijuan Walker, Orion Kerkering, Dylan Covey and Michael Rucker. Catcher Rafael Marchan was also listed due to lower back pain. All five injuries are retroactive to March 25th. Due to Walker’s injury Spencer Turnbull has been given a spot in the starting rotation and will pitch on Tuesday against the Reds. The rotation will also include Wheeler, Nola, Suarez and Sanchez. Kerkering who missed most of March due to illness will start in Triple-A and work his way back to the majors.
The Phillies are set to play their season opener on Friday against the Braves with Wheeler facing off against Spencer Strider at 3:05 p.m., which will be broadcasted on NBC10