The Philadelphia Phillies have faced a handful of injury issues during Spring Training, but there’s encouraging news regarding three key starters. According to MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki, top veteran is set to return to the lineup against the Pittsburgh Pirates after leaving Sunday’s game early with veteran star versus the Orioles. While key veteran, dealing with a bruised left knee, is cleared to play, his status is still uncertain due to a bruised lower back and no set timeline for his return.
Alec Bohm, who bruised his foot after fouling a pitch off it during Saturday’s game against the Tigers, could return as early as Wednesday. Bohm stayed in the game through the sixth but was pulled in the eighth as scheduled.
All three players are expected to play key roles for Philadelphia this season. Bohm led the team in doubles (44) and ranked second in hits (155) and RBIs (97) last season. Marsh, who split time between left and center field in 2024, has fully transitioned to center field this year, with Johan Rojas serving as a backup. Kepler, brought in from the Twins this offseason, is projected to be the club’s everyday left fielder.
Kepler’s history of injuries and his current back issue could be a red flag, though some believe the Phillies are simply playing it safe with Opening Day just over a week away. Still, there’s concern given that Kepler is the only offensive addition the team made this offseason.
Zolecki shared:
- Brandon Marsh (bruised knee) will return Tuesday.
- Alec Bohm (bruised foot) could return Wednesday.
- Max Kepler (bruised back) remains TBD.
You can view a clip of Kepler’s injury and assess its severity for yourself.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Phillies’ injury situation as they gear up for the start of the 2025 regular season.
