Phillies Lineup News: Crawford, Realmuto Out vs Nationals

Marsh starts in center field as Phillies make changes for series opener

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:40pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the energy and competition of the sport.The Phillies' lineup changes for their series opener against the Nationals showcase the team's strategic approach to optimizing their roster.Philadelphia Today

The Philadelphia Phillies have announced their lineup for the first game of their three-game series against the Washington Nationals, featuring a few notable changes. Shortstop Trea Turner, DH Kyle Schwarber, first baseman Bryce Harper, and third baseman Alec Bohm remain in the top four spots, but center fielder Brandon Marsh is starting in place of Mickey Crawford, and catcher J.T. Realmuto is not in the lineup.

Why it matters

The Phillies are making strategic lineup decisions, likely to optimize their chances of winning against the Nationals. The Marsh for Crawford move is particularly interesting, as Marsh has struggled against left-handed pitching while Crawford has excelled against lefties at the minor league level.

The details

Phillies manager Rob Kerr said the plan was always to have Marsh play center field today and give Crawford a day off. Taijuan Walker is taking the mound for the Phillies, making his first start of the 2026 season, as the team awaits the return of Zack Wheeler to the rotation.

  • The Phillies and Nationals face off with the first pitch at 7 p.m.

The players

Trea Turner

Phillies shortstop and leadoff hitter.

Kyle Schwarber

Phillies designated hitter and cleanup hitter.

Bryce Harper

Phillies first baseman and middle-of-the-order hitter.

Alec Bohm

Phillies third baseman.

Brandon Marsh

Phillies center fielder, starting in place of Mickey Crawford.

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What they’re saying

“The plan always was to have Marsh play center field today and to give Crawford a day off.”

— Rob Kerr, Phillies Manager

What’s next

Taijuan Walker will make his first start of the 2026 season for the Phillies, as the team awaits the return of Zack Wheeler to the rotation.

The takeaway

The Phillies are making strategic lineup decisions, balancing their options in the outfield and behind the plate, as they look to get off to a strong start against the Nationals in this three-game series.