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Phillies Outfielder Trending Toward Full Health by Opening Day

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Mike Ostrowski | Last updated Mar 11, 2025 12:00 PM ET

The man who played 119 games in center field for the Phillies last year could be ready to return to the outfield by Opening Day.

Johan Rojas, who has been exclusively DH-ing so far in Spring Training, is progressing well in his throwing programs, according to Phillies manager Rob Thomson.

“We think he’s going to be ready for Opening Day,” Thomson told Scott Lauber of the Philadelphia Inquirer. “He does such a great job getting his work in that I have really no concern about his defense or about him playing multiple innings - six, seven, eight - right out of the chute."

Since arriving at spring camp, Rojas has been dealing with a sore right shoulder. He last played outfield in the Dominican Winter League, winning a Gold Glove and Rookie of the Year in his first season with the Gigantes del Cibao.

Despite not being projected to start in center this season - a role Brandon Marsh is trending towards, per Thomson - he should still see significant time as both a defensive replacement and an extra bat against left-handed pitching.

The 24-year-old hit worse against lefties last season but was 20/60 against them in 2023. The Phillies have six left-handed hitters, five of whom are expected to be in the everyday starting lineup.

Rojas's next step is to increase his long toss from 90 feet to 120 feet, which will happen before Tuesday's game against the Boston Red Sox. He will also continue to field fly balls hit during batting practice.

If his arm holds up, Rojas should be ready to play on March 27, when the Phillies begin their season at the Washington Nationals.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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