Phillies are predicted to part ways with one of two bench players

The Philadelphia Phillies may be facing a problem, and it has to do with their two backup catchers, Garrett Stubbs and Rafael Marchan. 

Both are seeing little to no playing time -- since getting recalled from Triple-A Leigh Valley (April 22), Stubbs has played in 11 games, while Marchan has played in 23 -- and have not been successful in the time they've been on the field. Marchan and Stubbs usually only get into games when right-hander Aaron Nola is on the mound, with the other four starters preferring to pitch to J.T. Realmuto.

Carrying three catchers isn't ideal, and with both not seeing an increase in playing time anytime soon, Marchan or Stubbs could get designated for assignment. 

The Philadelphia Phillies could opt to DFA either Rafael Marchan or Garrett Stubbs to free up a roster spot

According to Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller, Stubbs or Marchan are working their way toward getting designated for assignment. Right fielder Adolis Garcia was the obvious candidate, but a hot start to June (.273 batting average with an .864 OPS and two home runs) has ended those calls, for now.

More MLB News: Cubs' three-time All-Star gives blunt critique on his play

"At some point soon, though, they're either going to dump Marchán or Stubbs, right?" wrote Miller, "They already did DFA Stubbs to open the season, but he accepted the assignment to Lehigh Valley, crushed to the tune of a 1.045 OPS for 10 games and got called back up in late April. But while he has a .492 OPS in 24 trips to the plate for the Phillies, Marchán is at a horrific .275 OPS in 22 games played as JT Realmuto's back-up. It'd be one thing to roster three catchers if they were all producing, but this borders on madness."

Other than catcher, Stubbs has some versatility, playing one game at third base, left field, first base and pitching an inning of relief. Stubbs essentially filled the role Dylan Moore had before he was designated for assignment. 

However, it is becoming time for the Phillies to choose one, as the roster spot they're occupying could go to someone like Otto Kemp or Felix Reyes. The Phillies need more outfield help and neither Stubbs nor Marchan is providing that. 

More MLB News:

• Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. provides a sense of relief after knee injury
• CJ Abrams can make Nationals/Expos history with All-Star nod
• The Phillies adding Mike Trout would be great, but it seems unlikely
• Blue Jays acquire starting rotation depth from the Twins
• Phillies' Kyle Schwarber's efforts may not be enough to start the All-Star game