Catcher Rafael Marchán, sidelined since spring training due to a back issue, made a notable return to the minor leagues this past week, providing a positive boost for the Phillies’ catching depth.
Marchán started his rehab assignment with Single-A Clearwater last Tuesday, marking his first game action of the regular season. Over the last series, he played four games for the Threshers: three as a catcher and one as a designated hitter. The switch-hitting catcher recorded a 3-for-11 performance with a home run, three walks, and a hit-by-pitch. More significant than his stats, however, is his presence on the field. Marchán, 25, has faced multiple injuries in recent seasons. He was a crucial backup for the Phillies in 2020, hitting his first professional home run at Citizens Bank Park, and played 20 games in 2021.
Except for a brief stint in 2022 when J.T. Realmuto was unable to play in Toronto due to COVID-19 vaccine restrictions, Marchán has not been on the Phillies’ roster. He has not appeared in a major-league game since 2021, with Garrett Stubbs firmly holding the backup catcher role for the past two seasons. Marchán’s recurring injuries, including a hamstring strain in 2022, a hamate fracture last year, and lower back pain this season, have limited his availability. Over the past three seasons, he has played 129 games, 12 of which were rehab assignments in the lower minors.
A healthy Marchán could become vital for the Phillies this season, especially as Stubbs has struggled offensively and Realmuto recently missed games due to knee soreness. Should Stubbs or Realmuto become unavailable, the Phillies lack a clear replacement in Triple-A. Aramis Garcia, despite a strong spring, has a .439 OPS for Lehigh Valley, while Cody Roberts has only played seven games and José Godoy has underperformed for the IronPigs. None of these catchers, unlike Marchán, are on the 40-man roster.
Marchán stands out as the primary depth option once he regains full strength, assuming he can maintain his health. As demonstrated by Kody Clemens’ recent success for the Phillies, a minor-league call-up can significantly impact the major-league team. Marchán, with his potential, will be a player to watch as he progresses.