Philadelphia Phillies Unveil 27 Non-Roster Invitees for 2026 Spring Training
The Philadelphia Phillies have officially posted their entire non-roster invitee list, comprising 27 players, for the upcoming 2026 Major League Spring Training in Clearwater, Florida. This annual tradition provides the organization with a valuable opportunity to evaluate talent beyond the standard 40-man roster, fostering competition and assessing emerging players as the regular season draws near.
Top Prospects Highlight the Invitee List
At the forefront of the list are two of the Phillies' most promising young talents: outfielder Justin Crawford and infielder Aidan Miller. Crawford, widely regarded as one of the organization's elite prospects, delivered an impressive .334 batting average with Triple-A Lehigh Valley in 2025. Many within the club view him as a strong contender for an outfield role in the Opening Day lineup.
Miller, the Phillies' number one prospect, spent the majority of 2025 with Double-A Reading but concluded the season with a standout performance in Triple-A. His disciplined approach at the plate and exceptional speed have made him a player to watch as a potential future middle-infield candidate.
Comprehensive Roster Coverage Across All Positions
The 27 non-roster invitees encompass all facets of the game, ensuring depth in pitching, catching, infield, outfield, and utility roles. This strategic composition allows the Phillies to thoroughly evaluate players who could provide crucial support during the season.
Pitching Depth with Left-Handed and Right-Handed Arms
The pitching squad features a mix of left-handed and right-handed arms, offering both experience and upside potential. Left-handed pitchers include Génesis Cabrera, Tucker Davidson, Tim Mayza, and Andrew Walling. On the right side, the list highlights Andrew Bechtold, Jonathan Hernández, Michael Mercado, Trevor Richards, and Bryse Wilson, each bringing unique skills to the mound.
Catchers Combining Experience and Youth
Five catchers have been invited to showcase their abilities behind the plate, creating a blend of seasoned players and younger talent. The group includes Kehden Hettiger, Mark Kolozsvary, Paul McIntosh, Renne Pinto, and Caleb Ricketts, all vying for attention during Spring Training.
Infielders and Outfielders with Future Potential
The infield squad comprises players like Keaton Anthony, Christian Cairo, Carson DeMartini, Aroon Escobar, Liover Peguero, Bryan Rincon, and Jose Rodriguez, each aiming to secure a position for the future. In the outfield, Crawford is joined by Dylan Campbell, Bryan De La Cruz, and Dante Nori, while Felix Reyes adds versatility as a utility player, enhancing the team's flexibility.
Opportunities for Playing Time Based on Performance
Among the invitees, certain players have clear pathways to earning playing time, contingent on their performance and the team's roster needs. Crawford and Miller are particularly anticipated, with discussions often centering on their potential roles in center field and the middle infield, respectively.
Implications for the Phillies' 2026 Season
These non-roster invitees must impress the Phillies' coaching staff and front office during Spring Training to secure roster spots. Successful performances in camp could not only lead to inclusion on the Opening Day lineup but also provide critical depth in case of injuries or performance issues throughout the season.
By blending young prospects with experienced minor-league players, the Phillies' 2026 non-roster invite list sets the stage for an exciting spring. As players compete fiercely to earn their places, the club aims to finalize a robust roster ahead of Opening Day, positioning itself for a competitive season ahead.