There’s a strong likelihood that Kody Clemens will make the National League Division Series roster. The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to carry 14 hitters and 12 pitchers for the NLDS, which gives Clemens a great chance to have key at-bats during the postseason.
Phillies president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, highlighted Clemens’ value as a left-handed option off the bench, signaling that Clemens is likely to make the postseason roster.
“Kody, to me, is a big-league player. We’ve believed that all along,” Dombrowski said. “When Clemens comes up, especially against a right-handed pitcher, I always feel like he’s a threat to get a hit. He can drive the ball, and he’s fearless at the plate. Sometimes he gets too pull-conscious, but he’s a solid major-league hitter. We trust him to have a good chance to get a hit every time.”
Despite his modest September stats—batting just .192 in 52 at-bats with two home runs, eight RBIs, and a .621 OPS—Clemens has proven he belongs. Among Phillies bench players with 40 or more at-bats, Clemens has the highest OPS.
Clemens is expected to be a reliable option against right-handed pitchers late in games.
“I’m glad [Dombrowski] believes in me,” Clemens said. “I’ve put in the work over my career to be ready for this role. Getting those opportunities during the season has helped me prepare for moments like this. When I pinch-hit off the bench, I feel like it’s the most crucial part of the game. I’ve been in that spot a lot and succeeded a few times. I think that’s why he has faith in me.”
Clemens is set to be part of a deep Phillies bench that includes Austin Hays, Weston Wilson, Garrett Stubbs, and Edmundo Sosa, a marked improvement over previous postseasons. The competition for the 13th and 14th bench spots reflects the depth of the roster.
“I think we’re stronger and deeper overall,” Dombrowski added. “Having 13 or 14 hitters gives us more flexibility. You’ve got someone on the bench that you feel confident in, whether it’s for outfield depth or pinch-hitting against left- or right-handed pitchers. We think our bench is solid.”
Clemens seems to be in the mix for the NLDS roster.
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