J.T. Realmuto -- General News

J.T. Realmuto's conversion into an elite catcher represents a scouting success story. Originally a shortstop at Carl Albert High School in Oklahoma, Realmuto was identified by Miami Marlins scout Steve Taylor as a third-round draft prospect with catcher potential, despite having caught fewer than a handful of games in high school. Tim Cossins, the Marlins' minor-league catching coordinator, credited Realmuto's exceptional arm strength, left-hand glove work, and outstanding makeup as the foundation for his development. Cossins described him as "an instructor's dream to have somebody that tooled-up with being that raw."

Since turning professional, Realmuto has become the best all-around catcher in baseball. From 2016 onward, he has led all catchers in runs (202), hits (434), doubles (92), and Wins Above Replacement (12.3 WAR). His quiet leadership earned a comparison to Derek Jeter from Marlins manager Don Mattingly. The Philadelphia Phillies acquired the 27-year-old All-Star in February 2019, trading prized pitching prospect Sixto Sanchez in the blockbuster deal. Industry consensus confirmed the Phillies received significant value in the trade.

The Philadelphia Phillies activated J.T. Realmuto from the 10-day injured list on Saturday after he was sidelined with back spasms. To create roster space, Dylan Moore was designated for assignment. The move leaves the Phillies with three catchers on their 26-man roster: Realmuto, Garrett Stubbs, and Rafael Marchán.

Interim manager Don Mattingly explained the rationale for keeping three catchers, noting that the third-catcher role provides flexibility for pinch-hitting and baserunning opportunities. He emphasized Stubbs' value as a non-traditional catcher capable of playing multiple positions including second base, third base, and left field, highlighting his ability to steal bases and bunt effectively.

Stubbs started in left field on Saturday when Justin Crawford became a late scratch due to a migraine and Brandon Marsh was unavailable after being hit on the right elbow the previous night. Stubbs had spent most of 2025 in Triple-A after being designated for assignment during spring training, as he retained a minor league option while Marchán did not. Stubbs expressed satisfaction at returning to the major league roster, emphasizing his desire to contribute to the Phillies' competitive organization.