One may argue that the Philadelphia Phillies have the tightest clubhouse in Major League Baseball. Following two spectacular playoff campaigns in 2022 and 2023, the Phillies have the best record in baseball a week before the All-Star break.
Despite the losses to stars Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and J.T. Realmuto, the Phillies’ young impact players are keeping the team on track. Brandon Marsh, known for his lengthy beard and slicked-back wet hair, is one of them.
Marsh joins the Phillies for the 2022 season, just over a year after making his MLB debut. He quickly bonded with his teammates and created a spark for Philadelphia, thanks in part to his early encounters with Harper and Schwarber after his arrival.
Marsh discusses his encounter with the Phillies’ great sluggers on the most recent episode of the “Chris Rose Rotation.”
“Harper and Schwarber just kind of put their arm around me the second I got in that locker room that day and was like ‘Hey kid, I know we don’t know much about each other but we’re in a tight pennant race here so you just got to get in or get out,” said Marsh. “In an encouraging manner, it’s as if we’re going to be there for you every step of the way. If you need anything, come to us and let us know, but we’re going to need you to go where we want to go. Hearing things like that from those individuals just hits home. And I was like, “All right, they’ve got my back; it’s time to go ride out there with them.”
Marsh finds his form in Philadelphia.
Brandon Marsh performed well upon his arrival in Philadelphia, but was largely ineffective in the 2022 postseason, as the Phillies fell two victories short of a championship. A year later, he thrived in a platoon role and was one of Philadelphia’s greatest hitters during the 2023 playoffs.
In 2024, Marsh was one of six finalists for the starting outfield position on the National League All-Star squad. Although he did not make the roster, the 26-year-old has taken a significant stride forward in his career.
This season, Marsh has a.261 batting average,.752 OPS, 17 extra-base hits, and 32 RBI. Despite his decent results, the Phillies haven’t completely trusted Marsh, owing to his numbers versus left-handed pitching.
Marsh has a.152 batting average against lefties this season. When compared to a.291 average against righties, the drop-off is dramatic.
Marsh continues to improve in areas where he lacks while maintaining a cheerful attitude in the Phillies clubhouse. Of course, Philly wants him to improve against lefties, but Marsh’s non-statistical contributions earn him a high ranking within the organization.
Brandon Marsh is a fan favourite, and a few sagging weeks will not detract from that. He has liked his time in Philadelphia and could return as an under-the-radar star for the Phillies in October.
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