The Philadelphia Phillies enter the 2026 season with a veteran-heavy roster and limited openings for bench and bullpen spots. That makes the Opening Day roster battle extremely competitive during spring training.
Feb 24, 2026; Jupiter, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Max Lazar (60) pitches in the second inning against the Miami Marlins at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images | Jim Rassol-Imagn Images
However, missing the first roster cut doesn’t mean a player won’t contribute later. Over the course of a 162-game season, injuries, slumps and workload management often create opportunities.
Here are five Phillies players unlikely to make the Opening Day roster who could still play meaningful roles in 2026.
Daniel Robert (Relief Pitcher)
Right-hander Daniel Robert faced a serious health scare during a bullpen session last October, which delayed his preparation for the season. After receiving medical clearance, he re-signed with the Phillies on a minor league deal in early February.
Because of limited bullpen spots and his delayed spring workload, Robert is likely to start the season with Triple-A Lehigh Valley.
Philadelphia acquired Robert from the Texas Rangers in May 2025, and he showed promise in the minors:
Triple-A Lehigh Valley (2025):
- 3.38 ERA
- 1.18 WHIP
- 19 strikeouts
He also appeared in 15 games with the Phillies, posting a 4.15 ERA before suffering a forearm strain that ended his season.
If he stays healthy and regains form, Robert could become bullpen depth during the season.
Bryan De La Cruz (Outfielder)
Veteran outfielder Bryan De La Cruz signed a minor league deal in November and has quietly performed well in spring training.
Through six Grapefruit League games, he’s hitting:
- .214/.313/.429
- .742 OPS
His previous MLB experience with the Miami Marlins and Pittsburgh Pirates (2022–2024) could give him an advantage over younger outfield competitors.
Recent rumors involving Johan Rojas potentially testing positive for a banned substance could also increase De La Cruz’s chances of seeing big-league playing time later in the season.
If he begins the year in Triple-A, he could be one of the first outfield call-ups if injuries arise.
Pedro León (Outfielder / Utility Player)
Pedro León is another outfielder competing for a bench role but likely destined to start the year in Triple-A.
The Phillies claimed the 27-year-old Cuban prospect off waivers from Baltimore earlier in the offseason.
So far this spring he has posted:
- .286 batting average
- .375 OBP
- .732 OPS
León has very limited MLB experience (just seven games with Houston in 2024), which likely works against him in the Opening Day competition.
However, his positional versatility could make him valuable during the season. In the minors he has played:
- Center field
- Right field
- Second base
- Shortstop
That flexibility could make him a useful utility option if the Phillies need roster depth later in the year.
Max Lazar (Relief Pitcher)
Reliever Max Lazar already has some familiarity with the Phillies bullpen, appearing in 47 games over the past two seasons.
Career MLB numbers so far:
- 4.75 ERA
- 1.24 WHIP
- 35 strikeouts in 55 innings
In three spring training outings this year, Lazar has posted a 3.00 ERA across three innings.
He will likely begin the season back at Triple-A Lehigh Valley, where he pitched well in 2025:
- 3.38 ERA
- 1.03 WHIP
- 23 strikeouts
If the Phillies need bullpen reinforcements, Lazar could quickly re-enter the mix as a middle-relief option.
Seth Johnson (Pitcher)
Seth Johnson has been one of the more impressive pitchers in Phillies camp this spring.
In five appearances (four relief outings and one start) he has recorded:
- 1.93 ERA
- 0.86 WHIP
Improved pitch velocity has been a major factor in his success.
Despite the strong performance, Philadelphia’s crowded bullpen likely means Johnson will start the year in Triple-A.
However, if he continues pitching well in Lehigh Valley, he could quickly force the Phillies to give him a major league opportunity later in the season.
✅ Bottom line:
The Phillies’ veteran roster may limit Opening Day opportunities, but players like Robert, De La Cruz, León, Lazar and Johnson provide important depth.
Over the course of a long season, one or more of them could easily become key contributors in Philadelphia’s pursuit of another playoff run. ⚾
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