As spring training begins, the Toronto Blue Jays are gearing up to defend their American League title. They will face the Philadelphia Phillies in their first game of the Grapefruit League on Saturday. This matchup marks the start of the Blue Jays’ preparation for the 2026 season.
Blue Jays Spring Training Lineup Against Phillies
The Blue Jays are showcasing a competitive lineup that features several key players expected to make an impact during the regular season. The batting order is as follows:
- Ernie Clement – 2B (Leadoff)
- Andres Gimenez – SS
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – 1B
- Alejandro Kirk – C (Cleanup)
- Addison Barger – RF
- Kazuma Okamoto – 3B
- Daulton Varsho – DH
- Davis Schneider – LF
- Nathan Lukes – CF
Starting on the mound for the Blue Jays is left-hander Eric Lauer. He had a strong performance in 2025, recording a 3.18 ERA along with 102 strikeouts and 26 walks in 104.2 innings across 15 starts. Lauer also contributed to the team’s successful postseason run, earning a 3.12 ERA in 8.2 innings during the playoffs, notably in the marathon Game 3 against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series.
Phillies Lineup Insights
The Phillies’ lineup features several significant players, albeit with fewer major-league names as they begin spring training on the road. Bryse Wilson, an offseason signing, will take the mound. Wilson struggled in 2025 with a 6.65 ERA and 28 strikeouts over 47.1 innings during his time with the Chicago White Sox.
- Notable players in the Phillies lineup include:
- Adolis Garcia
- Edmundo Sosa
- Otto Kemp
Aiming for Grapefruit Success Again
In addition to the regular season achievements, the Blue Jays are looking to replicate their success in the Grapefruit League from the previous year. With anticipation building, the spring training opener promises excitement as baseball season gets underway.
