Stubbs Stays with Phillies, Boosts Versatility

On March 2-8, Garrett Stubbs, the 32-year-old catcher, just decided to stick with the Phillies and take an outright assignment to AAA.

Lehigh Bali instead of hitting free agency? He got designated for assignment earlier this week when the team added Outfielder Justin Crawford and Infielder Christian Cairo to their 40-man, roster.

Cairo's contract forced that move, and Stubb split deal-pays him $575,000 in the miners, way more than most guys, down there.

So it made sense for him to stay put unless a big league spot opened up elsewhere.

Phillies manager Rob Thompson praised Stubb's big time, calling him a top teammate with killer energy and solid skills behind the best catcher in the game, J.T. Ramuto.

Even with limited playing time, Stubb's brings real value through his defense, game prep, and knowing every pitcher in the system.

They even tested him at third base and left field this spring to boost his versatility, and Thompson sees him as a super utility player who could fill.

Spots everywhere except maybe first base, while still catching.

This keeps Philadelphia's catching depth strong, with Ramuto and Raphael Marchon up top, plus options like Renee Pinto, Paul McIntosh, and Caleb.

Rickets waiting in Lehigh Bali's smart insurance against any injuries down the line.

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