Why Phillies might be telling agents that Aidan Miller isn’t ready for MLB role yet
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The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly telling agents that top infield prospect Aidan Miller may not be ready for a full‑time MLB role at the start of next season. According to a report by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the club has communicated that Miller will need more time in the minors before he can join the lineup on a daily basis. This stance could frustrate fans who see Miller as the obvious starter after the team loses infielders like Alec Bohm, Luis Arraez, and Edmundo Sosa to free agency.
The decision comes as the Phillies balance a roster that will feature Bryce Harper at first base, with Trea Turner and Bryson Stott filling in on the infield in various capacities. The organization’s front office, led by Dave Dombrowski, may be signaling to potential free‑agent infielders that a starting spot is still open, hoping to attract talent willing to compete for a role. This approach echoes the team’s experience last offseason when Andrew Painter was positioned to fill the number‑five spot in the rotation, which limited the Phillies’ ability to sign free‑agent pitchers due to a perceived lack of starting opportunities.
Whether the Phillies truly believe Miller needs additional seasoning or are strategically positioning themselves to lure free‑agent talent remains to be seen. The move may be a calculated effort to avoid repeating the challenges faced in the previous off‑season’s pitching market. The organization’s stance on Miller’s readiness will be closely watched as the free‑agent period unfolds.
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