Phillies Bench Star Outfielder for Nationals Matchup

Manager cites left-handed pitcher as reason for lineup change

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in shades of green, blue, and brown, conceptually representing the complex tactical decisions involved in setting a baseball lineup.A fragmented, cubist-inspired illustration captures the strategic lineup decisions managers must make to gain an edge in high-stakes baseball matchups.Philadelphia Today

The Philadelphia Phillies will be without star outfielder Justin Crawford in their lineup today as they take on the Washington Nationals. Manager Rob Thomson cited the Nationals' left-handed starting pitcher Foster Griffin as the reason for the lineup change, with Brandon Marsh expected to start in center field instead.

Why it matters

The Phillies are off to a disappointing 1-2 start to the season, and the decision to bench their star outfielder against a lefty pitcher raises questions about the team's lineup management and whether they are optimizing their roster to win games early in the season.

The details

Justin Crawford, the Phillies' starting center fielder and one of their top offensive threats, will not be in the lineup today as the team faces Washington Nationals left-hander Foster Griffin. Manager Rob Thomson said the decision was made to give the left-handed hitting Brandon Marsh the start in center field instead.

  • The Phillies are beginning their second series of the 2026 MLB season today, March 30, 2026.
  • The Phillies opened their season with a 1-2 record in a weekend series against the Texas Rangers.

The players

Justin Crawford

The Phillies' starting center fielder and one of their top offensive players.

Rob Thomson

The manager of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Brandon Marsh

A Phillies outfielder who is expected to start in center field today in place of Justin Crawford.

Foster Griffin

The left-handed starting pitcher for the Washington Nationals that the Phillies will be facing today.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Brandon Marsh might start in CF today”

— Rob Thomson, Phillies Manager

The takeaway

The Phillies' decision to bench their star outfielder against a left-handed pitcher raises questions about their lineup management and ability to optimize their roster, especially early in the season when every win is crucial.