With the recent demotions of Kyle Kendrick and infielder Jason Donald, the Phillies Opening Day roster is beginning to take shape. There are still a few battles left to be decided, like who will take the ball every 5th day and who will get the last spot on the bench, but let's take a look at my projection for who will make the Phillies roster. Players who are locks to make the roster are in bold.
Catchers (2): Carlos Ruiz, Chris Coste
Infielders (7): Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, Pedro Feliz, Eric Bruntlett, Greg Dobbs, Miguel Cairo
Outfielders (5): Jayson Werth, Shane Victorino, Raul Ibanez, Geoff Jenkins, Matt Stairs
Starting Pitchers (5): Cole Hamels, Brett Myers, Jamie Moyer, Joe Blanton, J.A. Happ
Bullpen (6): Brad Lidge, Ryan Madsen, Chad Durbin, Clay Condrey, Chan Ho Park, Scott Eyre
Will start season suspended: J.C. Romero
50 games for Romero for violating the MLB substance policy. Barring a late free agent signing, the Phillies will be one lefty short in the bullpen until then.
Players on the bubble:
C: Ronny Paulino
There is only room for one backup catcher between Coste and Paulino. Paulino has put up the better numbers this spring while Coste has fought his way back from an injury, but his experience in the organization gives him an inside edge. Should Coste falter or get injured at any point, Paulino will get his shot.
IF: Marcus Giles, Pablo Ozuna
A few weeks ago it appeared that Giles had the inside track in getting the utility infielder role, now it looks like Cairo is the guy due to his versatility. Giles is really just a second baseman, and with the return of Chase Utley, his role would be greatly diminished. Ozuna was always a longhot at best.
OF: John Mayberry
The Phillies may yet find a way to keep Mayberry on the roster, but with veteran Matt Stairs around, it will be difficult. Mayberry has certainly earned a spot with a strong spring, and it would be nice to have another right handed bat on the bench. The Phillies could still keep him if they move Jenkins or Stairs.
P: Carlos Carrasco, Gary Majewski, Mike Koplove
Carrasco is still a year or two away from making the club. Majewski and Koplove were always longshots to make the team, although one could sneak on the roster if the Phillies choose to keep 12 pitchers.
That's the team as I see it. Did I leave anyone off? Who should or shouldn't make it from this group?
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