Phillies Adjust Lineup Ahead of Home Opener Against Rockies

PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Phillies are set to host the Colorado Rockies in their home opener Monday, with key adjustments to their starting lineup. Following a weekend where two star players were sidelined, the Phillies are eager to build momentum from their early season success.

Manager Rob Thomson confirmed that Trea Turner will not be in the starting lineup due to persistent back spasms, which also kept him out of the previous two games. J.T. Realmuto, who missed Sunday’s game with a foot contusion, is back in the lineup and ready to play.

“J.T. is still a little sore, but it’s more precautionary than anything else,” Thomson stated. “We’ll work on him during the game. We’re aiming for both him and Trea to be back in action today.” Turner revealed the discomfort in his back arose from previously tight hips during spring training, complicating his return.

The Phillies triumphed 11-6 in their last game on Sunday, improving their record to 2-0 despite the notable absences. Edmundo Sosa stepped in at shortstop during Turner’s absence, while Max Kepler was also out of the lineup due to a lefty-righty match-up. Kepler, who is batting fifth, previously enjoyed a strong spring training performance, yet he is still trying to adjust to the major league environment.

After a promising showing against the Nationals, the Phillies are optimistic heading into the home opener. Cristopher Sanchez, who was named the starting pitcher, claimed seven strikeouts in a spring training where he recorded a 1.62 ERA, enhancing expectations of him for the 2025 season.

Thomson praised Sanchez for his significant progression over the years, noting, “When I first saw him, he always had a big arm. But he couldn’t command the ball, couldn’t even control it. The evolution started to happen where the velocity came down, but the command went up.” Sanchez’s journey to becoming a strong pitcher is indicative of the team’s broader improvements.

The lineup to face Rockies starter German Marquez will include Kyle Schwarber serving as the designated hitter and batting first, with Bryce Harper at first base and J.T. Realmuto catching. Kepler will take charge in left field, highlighting Thomson’s strategy to utilize left-handed hitters effectively against right-handed pitchers.

As the season unfolds, the Phillies are eager to capitalize on their early success and adapt flexibly to injuries and match-ups. The expectations have shifted as fans anticipate a strong performance as they adjust after missing vital players in previous games.

With the game starting at 3:05 p.m. at Citizens Bank Park, the atmosphere is expected to be electric as Philadelphia fans rally behind their team. Those wishing to keep up with developments can stay tuned for live updates and analysis throughout the game.