Phillies Notes: Kyle Schwarber in Left Field, Updates on Ranger Suarez and Weston Wilson

Kyle Schwarber will get the start in left field in tonight’s game vs. the Giants. It’s the first time this season he’s played the outfield.

Kyle Schwarber shagging some fly balls out in left field. He’s starting in the outfield for the first time all season.

Rob Thomson said pregame that Schwarber in left is “possibly” something they could do here and there against left-handed pitchers. pic.twitter.com/MLGsI5b5lA

— Luke Arcaini (@ArcainiLuke) April 16, 2025

It’s still extremely windy down at Citizens Bank Park. Schwarber’s first start in the outfield in this wind…what could go wrong?

Schwarber playing left field gives JT Realmuto some nights in the DH spot. Thomson said before the game that Realmuto at the DH spot is something they’ll do here and there. It’s a way to give Realmuto a break on the knees, but also keep his bat fresh and in the lineup. Realmuto is starting to hit the ball well after a bit of a tough start, so the Phillies didn’t want to give him a full day off.

Rob Thomson was asked ahead of tonight’s game if it’s difficult taking Max Kepler out of the lineup tonight after he’s started to really hit the ball hard the last few games. Left-hander Robbie Ray is on the mound tonight, which is the main reason that Kepler is out. Kepler has hit righties well over the last few days, and Thomson figured tonight would be the night to give him the night off.

Rob Thomson said it’s important to keep JT Realmuto in a rhythm while also giving him a day off behind the plate, which is why he’s the DH today. pic.twitter.com/dWGwKe2tFL

— Luke Arcaini (@ArcainiLuke) April 16, 2025

Quick Injury Updates:

Weston Wilson is playing left field tonight for Lehigh Valley. Rob Thomson said Wilson still needs more at-bats before he’s ready to return to the majors. He’s around 20 right now, and the team would like him to get to 40-ish.

Ranger Suarez is starting tonight in Clearwater. If everything goes smooth, he’ll go to a higher level for his next start. Thomson said that Suarez will “probably” be at CBP tomorrow to throw a bullpen and do a check-in with the trainers.

Rob Thomson gives an update on Ranger Suarez and Weston Wilson, saying Ranger will move up to a higher-level if his start tonight in Clearwater goes well.

Suarez will “probably” be here tomorrow to throw a bullpen and check in with the staff. pic.twitter.com/C7fEWcZOdA

— Luke Arcaini (@ArcainiLuke) April 16, 2025

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