Phillies fans should feel confident with this projected Opening Day lineup originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Philadelphia Phillies have a lot on their plates this offseason. They are at risk of losing key players like Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto, and Ranger Suarez.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThey could also use an upgrade at third base, along with another outfielder or two, after Nick Castellanos is expected to be traded or released, and Harrison Bader is on the open market.
The key will be for the club to retain Kyle Schwarber, but that is not the only move they are expected to make over the winter. They are projected to make multiple moves this offseason and continue to be a contender in the National League.
Phillies fans should feel confident with this projected Opening Day lineup
According to Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter, he expects the Phillies not only to retain Schwarber but also Realmuto. He also expects them to bring in Alex Bregman and Austin Hayes.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement"Their top priority is still re-signing Kyle Schwarber, and they also need to either bring back J.T. Realmuto or find another outside addition with no clear replacement behind the plate. Third baseman Alec Bohm was a non-tender candidate, and while he was ultimately tendered a contract, he could still be a trade chip after some rumblings he could be moved last winter. Moving him would open the door for a run at Alex Bregman, whose ability to make a major impact in 2026 fits the team's closing window of contention."
Bregman would have a huge impact, and Hayes is comfortable in Philadelphia, playing with them in 2024. That would be quite the offensive threat.
The projected Opening Day lineup, according to Reuter, would be:
DH Kyle Schwarber
SS Trea Turner
1B Bryce Harper
3B Alex Bregman
LF Brandon Marsh
RF Austin Hayes
2B Bryson Stott
C J.T. Realmuto
CF Justin Crawford
Crawford will be one to watch in 2026. He is the club's No. 3 prospect and is a threat with the bat in his hands and on the basepaths.
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