The Phillies’ first major injury of spring training will impact the competition for the final bench spot.
Manager Rob Thomson announced Saturday in Lakeland that Wilson will be sidelined for about six weeks with a moderate oblique strain. On Friday, Thomson mentioned that Wilson “felt a grab” while hitting in the batting cages.
Wilson was a leading candidate for the Phillies’ final bench spot, offering right-handed versatility in a lineup that leans left. However, he will now begin the season on the injured list.
Edmundo Sosa, who is getting some reps in the outfield, is a lock to make the roster. Either Garrett Stubbs or Rafael Marchan will serve as the backup catcher. Another bench spot could go to Johan Rojas, who has minor league options but is expected to stay with the big-league club as a defensive specialist and occasional starter in center field.
The final roster spot may come down to Buddy Kennedy and Kody Clemens, both of whom are out of options and would have to clear waivers to be sent down. The Phillies may also explore external options in free agency or trades as camp progresses and veterans on minor league deals begin opting out.
Kennedy, a right-handed hitter, could have an advantage over Clemens, who bats left-handed. Both will be in the lineup for Sunday’s Grapefruit League home opener against the Orioles. Kennedy, playing in back-to-back games, will start at second base, while Clemens fills in at first base for Wilson.
Kennedy made an early impact in spring training, hitting a home run in Saturday’s Grapefruit League opener against the Tigers.
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