Everybody loves a good story, and every story needs a beginning. Spring training is just that: the beginning. Everything we love about baseball starts as soon as pitchers and catchers report.
So in 2025, what stories should we be watching as the spring unfolds in central Florida?
Phillies Injury Report
When players return from injury, there’s only one thing on everyone’s mind. Will they come back to the top of their game? The Phillies have a handful of players reportedly on the mend, looking for a rebound.
Most of their offseason acquisitions fit into this category. New left fielder Max Kepler reportedly had a core injury that hampered his 2024 campaign. Potential closer Jordan Romano had arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow last summer. Presumed 5th starter Jesús Luzardo started just 12 games in 2024, dealing with a back injury.
All of them will be under close observation as February leaks into March.
On top of the new additions, Bryson Stott will also be under inspection. The young second baseman reportedly dealt with an elbow injury for most of 2024. Whether the injury affected him or not, Stott saw a .035 dip in his batting average from 2023 to 2024. It’ll be a pivotal year for Stott’s career.
Wrapping up offseason drama
An Alec Bohm trade almost felt inevitable with all the noise emanating from multiple media outlets. We’re now in the middle of February, and the Phillies’ 3rd baseman is still here.
Awkward.
Everyone wants to hear Bohm’s side of the story. Will he follow the path of the disgruntled Scott Rolen, or will he continue like nothing happened? The public cannot wait to hear from the 2024 All-Star with amazing hair.
A Japanese Import?
One of the most under-the-radar Phillies moves of the offseason has to be the minor league deal struck with veteran Japanese pitcher Koyo Aoyagi. The deal had some history to it as Aoyagi became the first major player the Phillies have signed directly from Japan.
Aoyagi, a 31-year-old with sidearm action, was fairly accomplished in Japan. He had an even 3 ERA pitching in Japan with a 3 ERA in 2024. Koyo is currently dealing with Visa issues as he tries to get to Clearwater to start camp. The expectation is that he will arrive by the end of the week if all documentation issues are resolved.
While he isn’t expected to be a major contributor for the Phillies, if Koyo finds success, it could lead to more doors opening in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
