Phillies Outfielders Exit Game Early but Provide Positive Injury Updates
The Philadelphia Phillies faced an unexpected setback during Sunday’s spring training matchup against the Baltimore Orioles when two of their outfielders, Max Kepler and Brandon Marsh, left the game due to injuries.
Kepler, a recent free-agent signing, exited in the first inning after crashing into the outfield wall while making a catch. Though he managed to jog off the field under his own power, he did not return to the game. Afterward, Kepler reassured reporters, including MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki, that his injury was minor a bruised lower back.
“I’m all right,” Kepler said. “It’s just a bruise, feels like I got hit by a pitch.”
With utility player Weston Wilson already sidelined and center fielder Johan Rojas struggling in spring training, keeping Kepler healthy is crucial. So far, he’s been impressive, slashing .360/.484/.800 with three home runs and nine RBI in 25 spring training at-bats.
Marsh, meanwhile, left in the third inning after slipping twice on the warning track, first in the opening inning and then again later. He compared the surface to “ice” and confirmed he had suffered a bruised knee.
Despite their early exits, both players noted they would have continued playing if this had been a regular-season game. However, with only a week left in spring training, there was no need to take unnecessary risks.
Kepler, who signed a one-year, $10 million deal, is shaping up to be a steal for Philadelphia. While the Phillies didn’t make major power-hitting acquisitions this offseason, Kepler brings a strong track record having blasted a career-high 36 home runs in 2019 and totaling 161 homers over his career, including three seasons with at least 20. His gap power is equally valuable, with 205 career doubles and seven seasons of 20 or more.
Marsh, who arrived in Philadelphia via trade in 2022, may not have Kepler’s power, but his versatility in the outfield makes him an essential piece of the roster. His ability to play multiple positions allows Kyle Schwarber to remain in the designated hitter role, keeping his glove off the field while maximizing his offensive impact.
While the Phillies avoided a major scare, they’ll be keeping a close eye on both outfielders as the regular season approaches.
