Phillies Move Garrett Stubbs To IL, Call Up Bryan De La Cruz

The Philadelphia Phillies have shifted their catching logistics, placing Garrett Stubbs on the 10‑day injured list due to left‑wrist inflammation and promoting Triple‑A outfielder Bryan De La Cruz to the active roster. The move comes after a Monday win against the Los Angeles Dodgers and ends the Phillies’ unusual three‑catcher setup that included J.T. Realmuto, Rafael Marchan, and Stubbs.

Stubbs has struggled to find consistent playing time this season, compiling only 28 at‑bats with a .179 average and a .429 OPS in 20 games. His limited workload made a roster spot increasingly untenable, prompting the team to use the injured list rather than designate him for assignment. The Phillies are now adding depth with De La Cruz, a 29‑year‑old right‑handed hitter who has bounced around the league.

Why Stubbs’ Spot Was Already Doubtful

Even before the wrist issue surfaced, Stubbs’ role on the 26‑man roster was questionable. With just a .179 batting line and minimal defensive usage, the Phillies could ill afford to carry him when other positions needed reinforcement. Placing him on the IL allows Philadelphia to keep his contract while evaluating his recovery.

The decision also reflects the broader context of a Phillies bullpen that has been juggling multiple roles mid‑season. By moving Stubbs to the sidelines, the team opens a bench spot for an outfielder who can contribute right away.

Meet Bryan De La Cruz

De La Cruz, who has logged time with the Miami Marlins, Atlanta Braves, and a brief stint with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2024, brings a career .251 batting average and a .697 OPS in the majors. His most recent stint with the Braves produced a .453 OPS in 47 at‑bats during the 2025 season, a dip that kept him in the minors.

At Triple‑A, however, De La Cruz has been a standout. He posted an .806 OPS this year, highlighted by a .333 average and a .980 OPS in June, followed by a .394 average and a 1.035 OPS in July. Across 308 at‑bats in 84 games, he recorded 12 home runs, 56 RBIs, 44 walks, 19 doubles, 83 hits, and 45 runs scored.

The Phillies view him as a versatile outfield addition, likely to see more action against left‑handed pitching. Though he is not slated for Tuesday’s lineup, De La Cruz is expected to receive playing time within the next week as Philadelphia looks for fresh offensive options.

What the Phillies Gain

By bringing De La Cruz up, Philadelphia adds a player who has shown the ability to hit for power and average in the minors while providing depth in a crowded outfield. His recent summer surge suggests he could contribute immediately, giving the team an extra bat as they continue their postseason push.

The move also signals a strategic shift for the Phillies, who have been unusually heavy on catching depth. With Realmuto and Marchan still on the roster, the organization is now focusing on position flexibility and offensive reinforcement through De La Cruz.

As the series against the Dodgers continues, the Phillies will monitor Stubbs’ wrist recovery and gauge De La Cruz’s impact in the field. Both decisions reflect a roster that is adapting to the demands of a tight August schedule.