The dream Philadelphia Phillies starting lineup for Opening Day 2023

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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – OCTOBER 15: J.T. Realmuto #10 of the Philadelphia Phillies is congratulated by Bryce Harper #3 following an in the park home run against the Atlanta Braves during the third inning in game four of the National League Division Series at Citizens Bank Park on October 15, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Phillies dream starting lineup: Batting second J.T. Realmuto, C

There are several directions the Phillies can go with the second spot in the lineup. The dream starting nine has catcher J.T. Realmuto batting number two. Although this might not be where everyone would put him, he hits and runs well enough to be somewhat similar to the type of hitter teams traditionally like in this spot.

Realmuto has been one of the steadiest ball players for the Phillies in recent years. Batting second allows him to put his power on display yet also show off other talents. Because this dream Phillies lineup has so much talent, Rob Thompson can get a little flexible.

At least to begin the year, Realmuto is the number two hitter.

Phillies dream starting lineup: Batting third Bryce Harper, RF

Who else would possibly bat third for the Phillies than Bryce Harper? Not only that, he’s back in right field where he belongs. Harper fully recovers this offseason and is ready to go on Opening Day to play defense again. We’ve missed it.

It’s easy to imagine Harper would have been in the MVP race in 2022 if he was able to stay healthy. Unfortunately, the 2021 MVP missed a large chunk of the season. When he was on the field, he hit tremendously well. He has been the dream slugger fans have always wanted.

With Turner and Realmuto hitting in front of him, opposing managers will definitely have to think twice about whether or not the pitcher on the mound is the guy to face him. If Harper doesn’t punish him, this dream addition to the roster sure will.

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