First Wave of Reassignments: Phillies’ Spring Training Roster Reduction
The Philadelphia Phillies took the first significant step in trimming their spring training roster on Tuesday, reassigning five players to minor-league camp. This move signals the beginning of the transition from the expansive spring training environment to the more focused major-league roster. The reassigned players include top infield prospect Aidan Miller, top outfield prospect Justin Crawford, 25-year-old infielder Carson Taylor, catcher Caleb Ricketts, and left-handed pitcher Tristan Garnett. Each of these players brought unique contributions to the spring training camp, and their reassignments reflect the team’s priorities and the players’ development paths.
Aidan Miller: The Young Infield Promise
Aidan Miller, one of the Phillies’ top infield prospects, appeared in six games during spring training. While he went 0-for-9 at the plate, he demonstrated solid plate discipline, drawing three walks. Born in 2004, Miller was a first-round draft pick in 2022, and he concluded the 2023 season with the Double A Reading team. This spring training experience, though brief, provided valuable exposure to the major-league environment, which the Phillies hope will accelerate his development. Miller’s potential is high, and his reassignment to minor-league camp is seen as a step toward continued growth and refinement of his skills.
Justin Crawford: Dynamic Outfield Talent
Justin Crawford, another top prospect in the Phillies’ system, made a more impactful appearance in spring training. The 19-year-old outfielder played in seven games, going 3-for-10 with two walks, two steals, and some well-struck balls to the opposite field. Crawford, like Miller, was a first-round draft pick, selected in 2023. The two prospects’ proximity in age and draft status has led them to share a developmental trajectory, with both ending the 2023 season at Double A Reading. Crawford’s performance in spring training showcased his speed and hitting potential, and his reassignment is seen as an opportunity to build on the foundation he has laid.
Carson Taylor: Versatile Infielder
Carson Taylor, a 25-year-old infielder, had a productive spring training with the Phillies. He went 4-for-10 in Grapefruit League games, including a home run and four RBI. Taylor’s journey to the Phillies includes time in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ farm system from 2020 to 2023. He spent the 2023 season at both Double A and Triple A levels, combining to hit .279/.396/.458. Despite his solid performance, the Phillies’ crowded infield depth limited his opportunities for increased playing time. Taylor’s reassignment to minor-league camp will provide him with more consistent reps and a chance to continue refining his skills.
Caleb Ricketts: Catching Prospect
Caleb Ricketts, a 24-year-old catcher, was drafted by the Phillies in the seventh round in 2022 out of the University of San Diego. He played 75 games last season at Double A Reading and saw limited action in spring training, appearing in two games. The Phillies currently have a robust group of catchers in major-league camp, including J.T. Realmuto, Rafael Marchan, Garrett Stubbs, Paul McIntosh, Payton Henry, and Josh Breaux. Ricketts’ reassignment allows him to focus on his development without the pressure of competing for limited playing time in a crowded position.
Tristan Garnett: Lefty Pitching Prospect
Tristan Garnett, a left-handed pitcher who turns 27 later this month, faced a challenging outing in his last spring training appearance. On March 22nd, he gave up three runs on four hits in just one-third of an inning against the Toronto Blue Jays. Despite this rough performance, Garnett had a solid 2023 season with the Phillies, mostly at the Double A level, posting a 2.63 ERA with high strikeout and walk rates. His reassignment to minor-league camp provides an opportunity for him to work on his command and consistency, key areas for improvement as he develops toward a potential major-league role.
Looking Ahead: The Phillies’ Spring Training Roster
With these reassignments, the Phillies’ spring training roster now stands at 61 players, including 21 non-roster invitees. The team’s focus will now shift to evaluating the remaining players and making further roster decisions. The minor-league camp will serve as a crucial development ground for the reassigned players, providing them with the necessary playing time and coaching to grow their skills. As the regular season approaches, the Phillies aim to integrate promising prospects like Miller and Crawford into the next phase of the roster, ensuring the team remains competitive and continues to develop its talent pipeline.
