The Philadelphia Phillies have a good reason for taking the unconventional route of carrying three catchers on their big league roster.
When J.T. Realmuto came off the injured list on Friday, the easiest decision for the Philadelphia Phillies to make would have been to designate Garrett Stubbs for assignment (again) and let Rafael Marchan continue to be the team's backup catcher.
Instead, the Phillies opted to DFA Dylan Moore and carry three catchers. It's an unconventional l move for a big-league team to make, but skipper Don Mattingly had a solid explanation behind the decision.
"I like the thought of three catchers; it allows us a little bit more freedom with pinch-hitting and running," explained interim manager Don Mattingly.
A lot of this has to do with Stubbs' versatility as not just being a catcher, but someone who can move around the field, too.
"[Stubbs] is not a traditional catcher that can't do anything else," continued Mattingly.
"He can play second, he can play third, he can play left. He actually runs, you can steal a bag. He's a good base runner, a good bunter. All the things that that role is bringing. We feel pretty good about Stubby doing it and protecting us."
The Phillies were working with Stubbs on being a more versatile fielder back during Spring Training, and he actually made his first career start in left field after Justin Craford was scratched from the lineup with a migraine, and Brandon Marsh continues to work through an elbow injury.
Of course, the ball was hit to him on the very first play of the game, and he fielded it like an old pro.
Apr 25, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Garrett Stubbs (21) celebrates with teammates after scoring a run against the Atlanta Braves in the tenth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn ImagesThe other reason the Phillies are choosing to carry three catchers right now is simply because of how many injuries Realmuto has already suffered this year.
The veteran backstop missed a few games earlier this season after taking a foul ball off his foot, and then landed on the injured list with back tightness. The Phillies hope Realmuto is healthy, but carrying an extra catcher gives the team some more insurance just in case.
Mattgingly said, "The thought of having a 3rd catcher, with where JT's been, we're hoping everything goes perfect, but you never know, and it does give me the flexibility."
Is this a long-term strategy for the Phillies? We'll see. But for now, it does make sense for the Phillies to carry an extra backstop, and Stubbs' versatility does make that a viable option.
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