Rule 5 Dilemma: McCambley’s Spring Comes Down to One Roster Spot
Zach McCambley, Philadelphia’s Rule 5 pick, is in a unique spot as spring winds down: he must stay on the Phillies’ big-league roster all season or be offered back to the Marlins. With Opening Day approaching, he’s vying for the final bullpen role against peers like Jonathan Bowlan and Kyle Backhus, and possibly while Orion Kerkering recovers from a hamstring issue. McCambley has a 1.23 ERA in eight spring outings but has walked six, leaving his status uncertain. Manager Rob Thomson says tough decisions lie ahead; if the team can’t trade him or keep him on the roster, he could be designated for assignment and, if he clears waivers, returned to Miami. Regardless, he’s grateful for the opportunity and the chance to learn from veteran teammates in camp.