The Philadelphia Phillies have been waiting since MLB Spring Training for encouraging news on Aidan Miller, and the club finally shared a positive update on the prospect’s lingering back injury.
President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski told reporters, including Todd Zolecki of MLB.com, that Miller has started swinging a bat recently. “It’s just the next step in his progress,” Dombrowski said. “It’s step by step daily. I can’t tell you what he did today, for example. But yes, he has started to swing the bat.”
Philadelphia Phillies News Update: Aidan Miller Begins Swinging a Bat
The most recent update on Miller was that he had not resumed baseball activities. The 21-year-old had progressed to various exercises, but had not advanced to swinging and throwing. Dombrowski’s announcement is the first word of Miller actually doing work related to the sport. While it’s a step in the right direction, Miller still seems far from returning to game action. “He’s doing good right now,” Dombrowski said. “But it’s one of those things. You don’t just go from swinging a bat one day like this, then play in a game today. You’re taking your time.”
Where Will Miller Play With the Phillies?
Miller has strictly played shortstop and DH in his minor league career. FanGraphs grades him as a 30 current fielder, with a 40 future value. That scouting report doesn’t suggest he’ll be able to stick up the middle as a big leaguer. Philadelphia doesn’t have room for him there, either. Trea Turner inked an 11-year, $300 million contract ahead of the 2023 season. After struggling with the glove in 2024, some approach tweaks helped him post an outstanding defensive season last year.
The DH spot isn’t available, at least not for the foreseeable future. The Phillies brought back Kyle Schwarber on a five-year, $150 million agreement. Veterans like Bryce Harper and J.T. Realmuto will also occupy the DH role when they need an off-day from the field. Third base is Miller’s likeliest home. Alec Bohm will be a free agent in 2027, opening up a spot at the hot corner.
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