Phillies Trade Stubbs, Keep Cairo: Roster Shuffle

On March 26th, the Philadelphia Phillies made a roster move right before opening day,

designating Catcher Garrett Stubbs for assignment to clear a.

Spot for 24-year-old utility infielder Christian Cairo.

They picked Rafael Marchan as the backup to J.T. Romudo instead of Stubbs.

Both Catchers were out of minor league options, but Marchan is six years younger

and seemed more likely to draw interest from other teens.

Cairo's contract included a clause that forced the Phillies to either add him

or risk losing him outright so they acted quickly to keep him.

Manager Rob Thompson shared mixed feelings about the decision,

praising Stubbs for his energy, teamwork, and smarts behind the plate.

Even with weaker hitting lately, Stubbs brings real value as a game planner

and positive clubhouse force and the team tested his skills at third base

and left field during spring training.

Now the Phillies have five days to trade Stubbs or put him on waivers.

If he clears, they can option him to triple A as their third catcher.

Whatever happens next, this shuffle adds depth and flexibility to the roster

while highlighting the tough choices in a tight race for spots.

That's your update from MLB News Today, powered by AI.