Phillies take an interesting approach to their catching situation

The Philadelphia Phillies are taking a different approach under interim manager Don Mattingly, as they will carry three catchers on the active roster. 

According to a team announcement on X ahead of Game 2 against the Miami Marlins, catcher J.T. Realmuto was activated from the 10-day injured list after dealing with back spasms. To clear a spot for the three-time All-Star's return, the Phillies designated infielder/outfielder Dylan Moore for assignment. 

Moore, 33, saw very little playing time with the Phillies outside of being a defensive replacement in a blowout or pitching in the same situation. The former Gold Glove winner (2024) made two relief appearances with the Phillies this season, where he pitched to a 5.40 ERA. 

The Phillies are opting to roll with three catchers on the roster as J.T. Realmuto returns

With Realmuto coming back, the obvious designation for assignment would've been Garrett Stubbs or Rafael Marchan. Both had been struggling at the plate — Stubbs is hitting .222 in nine at-bats, while Marchan is hitting .078 in 51 at-bats — and are out of minor league options. 

This is a smart decision for the Phillies, though, as Realmuto has been banged up a bit this season. The 35-year-old had to be pulled from two games after taking shots off his body and foot. These bumps and bruises have apparently slowed Realmuto’s progress at the plate, as he's hitting .259 with a .696 OPS and a home run. 

Carrying three catchers should allow Mattingly to get Realmuto off his feet, but keep his bat in the lineup as the designated hitter. The Phillies have played designated hitter Kyle Schwarber in left field for a couple of games. 

Realmuto has played 51 games at first base in his career (14 defensive runs saved), which could come into play more after getting banged up behind the plate. 

Stubbs will fill the role that Moore leaves and will be expected to provide the same type of versatility. Stubbs has played 14 games in left field in the big leagues and two in left field at Triple-A.