Roman Quinn reported to spring training last year knowing that his season would likely begin in triple A. The Phillies signed Michael Saunders a month before camp, and then-manager Pete Mackanin said he didn’t see a spot for Quinn.
This season is shaping up to be different. The speedy outfielder will start camp with the Phillies knowing there is a path for him to make the roster as a fifth outfielder.
The Phillies plan to enter the season with a shortened four-man bench as they lean toward building an eight-man bullpen. The bench will include a backup catcher, a fourth outfielder, and a utility infielder.