The Philadelphia Phillies have begun narrowing down their roster, reassigning players unlikely to make the Opening Day squad to other destinations.
Two of the most notable names in this round of Phillies roster cuts were pitcher Mick Abel and outfielder Gabriel Rincones Jr. Both were projected to be MLB-ready in 2025 but are beginning to spend extended time in Philadelphia’s farm system.
Mick Abel could be facing a make-or-break season with the Phillies if he doesn’t perform at Triple-A Lehigh Valley. In 2024, he struggled with a 6.46 ERA over 24 starts and 108 innings. His biggest concern has been command, as he issued 78 walks last season.
Rincones, meanwhile, stood out with his defensive skills and power at the plate, launching three home runs in just 20 at-bats. The 24-year-old has shown promise and could emerge as a valuable bench bat for the Phillies later this season.
None of the players reassigned to minor league camp came as a surprise, as Matt Kroon, Otto Kemp, and Paul McIntosh were unlikely to secure spots on the Phillies’ Opening Day roster.
Abel and Rincones Jr., ranked as the Phillies’ eighth and tenth-best prospects, respectively, have been under close scrutiny throughout Spring Training.
The 23-year-old Abel has appeared in just one Spring Training game this year, allowing three earned runs over 1.2 innings. He will begin the season at Triple-A Lehigh Valley and, barring significant injuries to the Phillies’ rotation, is expected to remain there before potentially being traded or designated for assignment.
