With just one more night before pitchers and catchers officially report for spring training, many players have already arrived at camp, eager to pursue a third consecutive World Series title.
Returning to the team is fan favorite Evan Phillips, affectionately known as “Honeybun.” Phillips was non-tendered last November, just six months after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Prior to his surgery, the right-handed reliever quietly showcased impressive performance, particularly against right-handed hitters. In fact, he posted a remarkable 0.00 ERA over 12 playoff games across five separate series. You can learn more about Fabian Ardaya here.
If Phillips recaptures his previous form, he will bolster a slightly strengthened bullpen that now features Edwin Diaz as the closer. The last time Phillips pitched for the , the closer role was typically shared among several relievers. Phillips is expected to rejoin the team later this summer.
On a less positive note, Ben Rotvedt is the only catcher currently not participating in spring training. His offseason was turbulent, as he was designated for assignment (DFA’d) by the , claimed by the Cincinnati Reds, then DFA’d again by the , and finally reclaimed by the . Hopefully, Rotvedt remains with the organization and gets a chance to develop further in Oklahoma City.
Bill Plunkett of the OC Register posed several questions as spring training begins: Who will step up as the primary second baseman? How will the handle their “high-end” player issues? What does the bullpen picture look like? Where will Kike Hernández fit in? And how will the World Baseball Classic impact the roster?
My straightforward take is that these concerns will resolve themselves naturally, especially regarding the bullpen and top-tier player scenarios. The typically start the season with a deep pitching staff, but by midseason, the original plans tend to shift dramatically. This outlook isn’t much more of a jinx than past mentions of injuries during the WBC.
Speaking of Kike Hernández, his return to the team is expected, though he had offseason elbow surgery and likely won’t be active anytime soon. As always, the roster will evolve as the season progresses.
Fan Take: This update is exciting for fans because it highlights the ’ resilience and depth, especially with the hopeful return of Evan Phillips strengthening the bullpen. It’s a reminder that baseball is unpredictable, and the way teams adapt throughout the season is part of what makes the sport so thrilling to follow.
