The tap on the shoulder came a few minutes after 8 a.m. Thursday, and Garrett Stubbs knew exactly what it was about. Truth be told, he has known for a while. Because despite being the Phillies’ backup catcher three years running — three seasons in which the team reached the postseason — Stubbs has minor league options.

The Phillies announced Thursday that they’ve optioned catcher Garrett Stubbs to Triple-A Lehigh Valley. In doing so, they all but confirmed that switch-hitting Rafael Marchan will be their backup catcher.

Javier Rivas hit a walk-off solo home run to complete a three-run uprising and hand the Pittsburgh Pirates a 3-2 win over the visiting Philadelphia Phillies in spring-training action on Tuesday in Bradenton,

The Philadelphia Phillies have a flamethrower in their bullpen and he is only throwing faster by the day, proving his worth for this season.

The Phillies still plan for Kyle to be the team’s DH, with him occasionally playing the field to give others some time off. His practice at first is aimed at keeping superstar Bryce Harper healthy - something that's imperative to Philly's hunt for the World Series crown.