The Philadelphia Phillies shake up their projected Opening Day roster. Is Rafael Marchan about to beat out Garrett Stubbs as backup catcher for another season? Bryan De La Cruz’s right-handed power and Kyle Backhus’ unconventional bullpen delivery offer intriguing upside, while Johan Rojas faces skepticism after a lackluster spring and defensive miscues. Otto Kemp’s ability to contribute both infield and outfield depth may become pivotal as the team carries only five true infielders. Connor Thomas breaks down the Phillies’ set rotation—Cristopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, Aaron Nola, Taijuan Walker, and Andrew Painter—yet questions linger about how injuries, especially to Zach Wheeler, could disrupt the starting five. The bullpen’s final spots are contested, with Zach McCambley likely earning a place via Rule 5 circumstances and Backes bringing unique left-handed flair. Can these under-the-radar moves provide the depth and unpredictability needed for Philadelphia’s postseason aspirations? 00:00 Phillies Opening Day Roster Breakdown Connor Thomas previews his first roster projection for the spring, discussing position players, catcher decisions, infield/outfield depth, and surprising candidates. 11:02 Rotation Analysis & Possibilities Connor Thomas dives into the starting pitching rotation, examining how set in stone the five starters are, possibilities for changes, and the implications of Zack Wheeler’s injury. 21:02 Bullpen Competition & Final Spots The bullpen segment explores high-leverage arms, the debate around the final 2 roster spots, Rule 5 decisions, and depth options for the Phillies. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonphillies.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PlayStation This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE. Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
