Locked On Phillies - Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Phillies

Nick Castellanos’ messy Philadelphia Phillies exit sparks a new wave of drama as he takes thinly veiled shots at manager Rob Thomson and hitting coach Kevin Long, questioning their credibility for never playing at the MLB level. Do Castellanos’ comments signal deeper player-coaching divides, or are they just sour grapes as he moves on to the San Diego Padres?

Connor Thomas breaks down the aftermath of these pointed remarks, the Phillies’ clubhouse reaction, and why Castellanos’ attitude toward coaching could haunt his future. The episode also covers Bryce Harper’s candid Bussin’ with the Boys interview—revealing his true feelings about Dave Dombrowski’s “not elite” comments and reaffirming his commitment to Philly. Plus, get a sharp season preview for Orion Kerkering: his bounce-back potential, bullpen role, and developmental goals. Can the Phillies silence the off-field noise and focus on winning baseball as 2026 approaches?

00:00 — Castellanos' Philly Exit

Connor Thomas breaks down Nick Castellanos’ departure from the Phillies, including his pointed comments about Rob Thomson and critique of coaches without MLB playing experience.

11:32 — Harper on Dombrowski Comments

Analysis of Bryce Harper’s podcast appearance discussing Dave Dombrowski’s “not elite” remarks, his mindset, and why Harper isn’t going anywhere despite trade rumors.

22:29 — Orion Kerkering Season Preview

In-depth preview of Orion Kerkering’s upcoming season, the challenges he faced last year, what went wrong, and what improvement looks like for the Phillies’ reliever.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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Bryce Harper and Dave Dombrowski’s rift sparks fresh controversy as the Philadelphia Phillies head into spring training. Who’s really at fault—the star first baseman or the president of baseball operations? Connor Thomas unpacks Harper’s fiery response to Dombrowski’s offseason comments, exploring trust, leadership, and how public criticism could impact a Phillies squad still aiming for World Series contention.

Key segments cover Rob Thomson’s search for a reliable cleanup hitter—Alec Bohm, JT Realmuto, or new power bat Adolis Garcia—to anchor an explosive lineup behind Harper, Schwarber, and Turner. Plus, Connor Thomas spotlights Tanner Banks’ breakout role in the Phillies bullpen and analyzes whether his 2025 performance can be repeated. Don’t miss the latest on team chemistry, position battles, and bullpen expectations as the Phillies look to turn preseason drama into championship success.

00:00 Harper vs. Dombrowski Beef
Show opens with Connor Thomas discussing the lingering tension between Bryce Harper and Dave Dombrowski, analyzing both sides of the offseason comments.

12:16 Phillies Cleanup Hitter Options
Connor Thomas breaks down Rob Thomson’s three candidates for the cleanup spot (Alec Bohm, JT Realmuto, Adolis Garcia), pros and cons, and shares his preferred approach.

23:11 Tanner Banks Bullpen Preview
A deep dive into Tanner Banks’ breakout season, expectations for 2026, historical comps, and why he’s crucial to the Phillies bullpen this year.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Turbo Tax
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FanDuel
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The Philadelphia Phillies’ youth movement heats up as Justin Crawford claims the spotlight in spring training. Will his transition to center field and adjustments at the plate answer the biggest roster questions? Connor Thomas explores why Crawford’s development could be the X-factor, alongside updates on top prospects Aidan Miller and Andrew Painter, and what each brings to the table—defensively and offensively—for the Phillies’ 2026 campaign.

Jose Alvarado faces a critical bounce-back season after his PED suspension, but with new bullpen depth, can he return to dominance? Plus, get the latest on Zack Wheeler’s health coming out of Clearwater and the bizarre story behind his “souvenir” rib. With vital updates, sharp analysis, and bold predictions, Locked On Phillies shapes the conversation: Is this youth-infused roster ready for a deep postseason run?

00:00 – Phillies' Top Prospects at Spring Training
Connor Thomas breaks down the three most exciting Phillies prospects heading to spring training—Aidan Miller, Andrew Painter, and Justin Crawford—and explains why Justin Crawford is the most intriguing to watch this spring.

12:04 – Jose Alvarado 2026 Season Preview
Focus shifts to Jose Alvarado’s upcoming season, analyzing the effects of his PED suspension, the expectations for his bounce-back, and how his bullpen role sets him up for possible success in 2026.

23:17 – Zack Wheeler’s Health Update & Odd Story
Connor Thomas delivers the latest on Zack Wheeler’s injury recovery, shares positive news out of camp, and retells a wild story about Wheeler keeping his removed rib after surgery.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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The Philadelphia Phillies cut ties with Nick Castellanos, igniting a firestorm of locker room drama. Did Castellanos’ attitude disrupt the team’s chemistry—and could his departure unify the roster for a playoff push? Connor Thomas analyzes the fallout from Castellanos’ release, spotlighting reports from The Athletic and a revealing handwritten note from the ousted star. Key discussion points include details of the infamous “Miami incident,” friction with manager Rob Thomson and hitting coach Kevin Long, and the impact on clubhouse dynamics. The episode explores how organizational decisions, player accountability, and locker room divides may shape the Phillies’ 2026 outlook and postseason chances.Will the Phillies’ environment improve now that Castellanos is gone? Can the team harness this turning point for greater success on the field? Don’t miss Connor Thomas’ breakdown of the events reshaping Philadelphia baseball.

00:00 — Castellanos Released Drama
Episode introduction, the breaking news of Nick Castellanos being released from the Phillies, overview of drama and fallout.

13:00 — Assigning Blame Fallout
Deep dive into who is responsible for the situation; analysis of Castellanos' attitude, organizational response, and locker room impact.

24:31 — Positive Spin, Future Outlook
Reframing the aftermath—potential positive effects on the Phillies clubhouse, speculation on improved environment and performance for 2026.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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Indeed
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.
 

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Is top prospect Aidan Miller set to accelerate his path to the big leagues with the Philadelphia Phillies? Connor Thomas reveals why Miller could break through as early as 2026, despite the Phillies’ crowded infield featuring Trea Turner, Alec Bohm, and Bryson Stott. The conversation explores key factors that could unlock Miller’s debut, including potential injuries, struggles from incumbents, and the Phillies’ developmental strategies.

Attention shifts to the bullpen with a deep dive on Brad Keller’s arrival as the newest high-leverage right-handed arm. Connor Thomas outlines Keller’s transition from starter to dominant reliever, evaluates his 2.07 ERA with the Cubs, and predicts his fit alongside José Alvarado and closer Jhoan Duran. The episode wraps with a reality check on pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training, managing early expectations for Phillies fans, and what to watch in Clearwater as Opening Day approaches.

00:00 — Aidan Miller MLB Path
Connor Thomas discusses Aidan Miller's chances for a 2026 Phillies call-up and the infield roster path.

11:08 — Brad Keller Bullpen Impact
Deep dive into new reliever Brad Keller’s profile, his role as a high-leverage bullpen arm, and his 2026 outlook with the Phillies.

21:10 — Pitchers, Catchers, Spring Hype
Evaluating expectations with pitchers and catchers reporting, realistic spring training observations, and first-look takeaways from Clearwater.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Turbo Tax
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Indeed
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.
 

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Nick Castellanos’s Philadelphia Phillies tenure is reaching its final days, as front-office signals point toward an imminent release. Can Dave Dombrowski find a last-minute trade, or will the Phillies eat $20 million to move on? Connor Thomas examines the fallout from this public saga, questioning if Philadelphia mismanaged Castellanos’s value and what his departure means for roster flexibility.

Rob Thomson asserts the Phillies are stronger than last year, sparking debate over “running it back” versus genuine upgrades. The show spotlights new faces like Jhoan Duran as closer, Adolis Garcia in right field, and bullpen changes poised to shift the team’s trajectory. And a preview of Brad Keller’s role round out this must-hear breakdown on how Philadelphia is gearing up for another playoff push. Is this the core that finally goes all the way?

00:00 — Castellanos Trade Update
Connor Thomas dives into Dave Dombrowski’s comments regarding Nick Castellanos, analyzing why the Phillies are moving quickly to part ways, how it’s likely to happen, what went wrong with the process, and why a release rather than a trade now seems inevitable.

11:25 — Rob Thomson’s Team Outlook
Connor Thomas breaks down Rob Thomson’s comments on the Phillies’ current roster, discussing whether the team is actually improved from the previous year, arguments for and against the “run it back” narrative, and a detailed comparison of position groups and expectations.

22:33 — Jhoan Duran Bullpen Preview
The segment shifts to a bullpen preview featuring Jhoan Duran as the new closer. Connor Thomas explains Duran’s dominance, the impact he’ll have over a full season, and why Phillies fans should be excited about the upgrades in the bullpen.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Turbo Tax
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Indeed
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Philadelphia Phillies fans should take heart—could an aging, familiar roster finally break through like Seattle’s Super Bowl champions? Connor Thomas draws intriguing parallels between the Phillies’ seasoned lineup and the NFL’s unexpected victors, questioning why expectations are so low despite talent like Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and Zack Wheeler. Is a top-5 payroll and postseason experience enough to flip the script, or will skepticism prevail?

Connor offers a detailed Taijuan Walker season preview amid Wheeler's injury, emphasizing Walker’s resurgence and value as a swingman for 2026. The mailbag features debates on Otto Kemp’s best role and projected Phillies’ win totals for the first 31 games, analyzing tough matchups against the Texas Rangers, Cubs, and Braves. With a focus on roster flexibility, defensive identity, and the fanbase’s high-stakes patience, Locked On Phillies delivers fresh optimism—and tough questions—about the team’s true potential in a pivotal season.

00:00 — Super Bowl & Phillies parallels
Connor Thomas explores why the recent Super Bowl should give Phillies fans hope, drawing inspiring comparisons between football and baseball teams' unexpected success.

11:50 — Taijuan Walker season preview
Detailed breakdown of Taijuan Walker’s role, expectations, stats, and significance for the Phillies in 2026 as he steps in for Zach Wheeler.

24:21 — Mailbag Monday & Phillies schedule
Connor Thomas answers listener questions about Otto Kemp’s development and projects the Phillies' record for their first 31 games, emphasizing April challenges.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The Philadelphia Phillies face uncertainty as Zack Wheeler’s return from thoracic outlet syndrome looms. Can Wheeler regain his Cy Young form, or will the rotation need to rely on Cristopher Sanchez and Jesus Luzardo for ace-level performance? Host Connor Thomas previews Wheeler’s 2026 expectations, breaks down potential roles for Andrew Painter and Aaron Nola, and examines how the revamped Phillies bullpen could ease the pressure on starters.

The World Baseball Classic adds intrigue as Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Cristopher Sanchez, and others represent their countries—will their global exposure help or hinder the Phillies’ season? Connor Thomas also spotlights the club’s farm system revival under Dave Dombrowski and Preston Mattingly, celebrating a top-15 ranking and emerging prospects like Justin Crawford and Aidan Miller. Can Philadelphia leverage its new depth for another 90-win campaign and postseason push?

00:00 — Zack Wheeler Season Outlook
Opening comments about Zach Wheeler, expectations for his return and performance, health factors, and impact on Phillies’ rotation.

11:49 — Phillies in World Baseball Classic
Which Phillies players are participating internationally, risks/rewards of WBC, fan perspectives, and list of committed players.

23:10 — Phillies Farm System Improvement
Assessment of the Phillies’ minor league rebuild, Dombrowski/Mattingly impact, recent prospect rankings, and future implications.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
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Indeed
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FanDuel
If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win. Make it count — because after the Super Bowl, the season is over. Last call for football on FanDuel, an Official Sportsbook Partner of Super Bowl Sixty. 
 

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The Philadelphia Phillies set the stage for a pitching resurgence as Andrew Painter’s challenging 2025 minor league season may be the perfect springboard for a breakout MLB debut in 2026. Can Painter’s recovery from Tommy John surgery and proven durability translate to a key rotation spot without strict innings limits? Connor Thomas explores why Painter’s workload and velocity offer reasons for Phillies fans to be optimistic.

The episode scrutinizes Orion Kerkering’s high-pressure blunder against the Dodgers, his offseason mindset, and whether he can reclaim trust in the bullpen. Plus, Gage Wood emerges as a potential dark horse, with his University of Arkansas heroics fueling speculation about a rapid rise through the Phillies’ system. Insightful projections, bullpen pecking order analysis, and a look at key rotation battles underscore the intrigue heading into the 2026 MLB season for Philadelphia.

00:00 — Andrew Painter 2025 Review

Connor Thomas analyzes Andrew Painter’s challenging 2025 minor league season and explains why it sets up a potentially strong MLB debut in 2026.

13:43 — Orion Kerkering Bounce Back

Discussion pivots to Orion Kerkering’s tough ending to 2025, his offseason mindset, and what to expect from him in the Phillies’ bullpen this year.

22:54 — Gage Wood’s MLB Potential

Focus turns to pitching prospect Gage Wood, his background, why he’s intriguing, and whether he could make his major league debut in 2026.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

FanDuel
If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win. Make it count — because after the Super Bowl, the season is over. Last call for football on FanDuel, an Official Sportsbook Partner of Super Bowl Sixty. 
 

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Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson’s job security is under the microscope, despite a fresh contract extension. With the Phillies boasting a postseason streak and heightened talent, expectations are sky-high—will Thomson survive if the team stumbles early? Connor Thomas spotlights key managerial decisions, recent clubhouse tensions, and the pressure mounting as Opening Day approaches. The episode also features season forecasts for Aaron Nola, dissecting whether the seasoned pitcher can rebound from his rough 2024 performance and shoulder the innings the roster desperately needs.

Plus, listeners get actionable spring training advice from an insider perspective, including the unique fan experiences that Clearwater offers. Find out why making a trip to Florida could be game-changing for fans, how Rob Thomson’s strategy might influence the season’s outcome, and what to expect from rookie Andrew Painter’s debut. Explore pivotal storylines and discover why every game, every decision, and every moment matter for Philadelphia’s path to the World Series.

00:00 — Rob Thomson's Job Security
Opens the show discussing Rob Thomson's contract extension, his managerial performance, and why his job as Phillies manager isn't as safe as it appears.

12:57 — Aaron Nola Season Preview
Focus shifts to expectations for Aaron Nola in the upcoming season, analyzing his past performance, trends, and what a bounce-back year would look like for him.

24:09 — Why Attend Spring Training
Final segment makes a case for fans to experience Phillies spring training in Clearwater, Florida, highlighting the unique atmosphere and benefits of the trip.

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