The Phillies released a medical update on Brandon Marsh.
The outfielder underwent left knee arthroscopic debridement surgery in Philadelphia on Friday morning, per the team. He will miss three to four weeks, but is expected to be ready to play come Opening Day.
Marsh, 26, spent two weeks on the injured list last August with a left knee contusion. The move leaves the Phillies extremely thin in the outfield. Simon Muzziotti was designated for assignment to make room for right-handed starter Max Castillo, who was claimed off waivers from the Red Sox, on the 40-man roster.
Weston Wilson, Jake Cave and Cristian Pache are the only reserve outfielders on the 40-man roster. The Phillies would like to avoid playing Kyle Schwarber for an extended stretch in the outfield and Bryce Harper is unlikely to shift from first base back to the outfield to cover an injury. Pache is likely the favorite to take over Marsh’s spot in left field in the event that he misses time in the regular season.
Even though the expectation is that Marsh will be ready to go once the season begins, the injury makes it even more likely that Johan Rojas begins the season with the big league club. Perhaps Marsh’s injury urges the Phillies to make a greater push to add a fourth outfielder in order to protect his health throughout the season.
Pitchers and catchers report to Clearwater, Fla. on Wednesday, Feb. 14. The first full-squad workout is scheduled for Feb. 19.
