Kennedy’s New Opportunity with Wilson Out for Six Weeks
LAKELAND, Fla. — When Weston Wilson strained his oblique in the batting cage, Rob Thomson, the Phillies’ manager, had to make a quick adjustment. With Wilson slated to start at first base in the Phillies’ Grapefruit League opener, Thomson turned to Buddy Kennedy with a simple question: “Can you play first base tomorrow?” Kennedy, unfazed, responded confidently, “Absolutely, I played it last year with Toledo a little bit in the Tigers’ Triple A system.”
This is a time of year when one player’s injury often creates an opportunity for another. Kennedy’s response was more than just verbal; he walked during a three-inning Phillies rally and hit a line-drive, two-run home run to left field in his next at-bat. “Cool homer, man,” a couple of his former Tigers teammates joked as they walked past Kennedy, who was meeting with reporters after the game. Kennedy’s performance certainly caught everyone’s attention and solidified his standing in the race for the final bench spot.
The Final Roster Battle Intensifies
Wilson’s moderate oblique strain means he will be out for six weeks, a significant setback for a player who was trying to make his first Opening Day roster. Wilson had the inside track to the Phillies’ final bench job due to his right-handed bat and versatile defensive capabilities, including his ability to play both infield and outfield corners. His injury has altered the dynamics of the competition for the final roster spot.
Edmundo Sosa is expected to take one of the four bench spots, with another going to the backup catcher. Johan Rojas is likely to take a third spot, leaving the final position open to competition. Before Wilson’s injury, the contenders for this spot included Kennedy, Kody Clemens, and Cal Stevenson. Now, the stakes have risen for Kennedy, and his performance in the first game has certainly placed him in a favorable position.
Thomson’s Perspective on the Roster Dynamics
“Hopefully he’s back in six weeks,” Thomson said after the Phillies’ 7-6 walk-off loss to the Tigers. “It’s a brutal blow for a player who was trying to make his first Opening Day roster. Wes Wilson’s a great guy. Everybody loves him. It’s very sad for all of us, including him, of course.”
With Wilson out, Thomson noted that Kennedy’s chances have increased. “Buddy comes into play a little bit more now. If Sosa can play the outfield, maybe it’s a left-handed bat. I think we’ve got some options still.” The Phillies have been working on Sosa’s outfield skills, and Wilson’s injury has only increased the importance of his ability to play left or center field. If Sosa can become a viable outfielder, Clemens’ chances of making the Opening Day roster improve as the final bat wouldn’t need to be right-handed.
Kennedy’s Winter Training with Mike Trout
Kennedy’s dedication to his craft and his commitment to versatility have been evident in his preparation for the season. A native of Millville, NJ, and a former teammate of Mike Trout, Kennedy has been working hard to refine his skills. This winter, he trained every morning with Trout, who is known for his exceptional defensive abilities in the outfield.
Kennedy would wake up around 4 a.m. and make the 30-minute trip to Trout’s gigantic home, which includes a full gym, basketball court, and agility station. “This offseason, 5:15 every morning, Monday through Friday, we’d be grinding for about two-and-a-half hours and then I’d go home and sleep till 12 and go play golf at 1,” Kennedy said. “It was good, it was fun.”
During these training sessions, Kennedy focused on improving his outfield skills. He asked Trout for tips and drills, and the former MVP provided invaluable insights. “I asked him, obviously he’s a center fielder, you played left when you were younger in your career, what keys do you look for? He gave me some different tips and drills to work on that carried into camp. Just trying to perfect them and do everything I can to be in the best position when a flyball comes my way.”
Kennedy’s Big-League Experience and Goals for 2024
Kennedy has already tasted big-league action, appearing in eight games with the Phillies in 2024. He had a couple of notable moments, including walking to load the bases for Clemens’ walk-off hit on September 9 and hitting a game-tying double in the eighth inning of a win over the Mets the following week. Now, he’s aiming to start the season in the major leagues for the first time.
“Having two big-league camps now, I’m really just trying to have fun and play baseball, just like travel ball,” Kennedy said. “Trying to not put too much pressure on myself, try to enjoy it, have fun. Whether it’s a negative at-bat or positive at-bat, just try to move forward to the next one. Just kinda play free.” His positive attitude and strong performance in the first game of the spring showcase his readiness and determination to secure a spot on the Opening Day roster.
The Phillies’ Flexibility and Future Moves
The Phillies have the flexibility to make additional moves if necessary. They could add someone in February or March who isn’t in another team’s plans, similar to when they acquired Cristian Pache from the A’s just before the 2023 season. This flexibility means that Kennedy and the other contenders for the final bench spot must remain focused and perform consistently throughout spring training.
For now, Kennedy’s defensive versatility and strong offensive performance have certainly put him in a favorable position. The Phillies will continue to evaluate all their options, but Kennedy’s proactive approach to training and his evident talent have made him a compelling choice for the final bench spot. As the spring progresses, the competition will only intensify, and the Phillies will be watching closely to see who emerges as the best fit for their team.
