The 2025 MLB spring training action is finally here, and the Philadelphia Phillies will make their exhibition debut against the Detroit Tigers on Saturday. While Phillies fans already have a good idea of who will be facing the Tigers in Lakeland, FL this weekend, a lot can change between now and when the regular season begins.
In fact, one former Phillies draft bust is hoping to change manager Rob Thomson's lineup plans as he attempts to realize his MLB dreams.
Phillies Offer Kelly Dugan MLB Comeback Opportunity
The Phillies are offering a spring training opportunity to veteran outfielder Kelly Dugan, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer's Matt Breen.
"(Dugan) will spend three days in minor-league camp on a tryout before playing Thursday in a major-league spring training game against the Yankees,' Breen reported, adding that Dugan's contract is worth $600 per week.
The Phillies are bringing former prospect Kelly Dugan to Clearwater for a tryout as part of a documentary. The 34-year-old will spend three days in minor-league camp and play a big-league game. “I’m doing it for all the guys who deserve a second chance.” https://t.co/LCPtQI1NGC
— Matt Breen (@matt_breen) February 21, 2025
Dugan, 34, is a former 2009 Phillies second-round pick who's been filming his attempted MLB comeback with filmmaker Mike Tollin, who was one of the executive producers on Netflix's iconic Chicago Bulls documentary, "The Last Dance."
According to Breen, "the documentary is slated to be released next year as a multi-part series."
Despite being an early draft pick, Dugan never suited up for the Phillies (or any MLB club, for that matter). The Encico, CA native stayed with the franchise through 2015 before spending time in the Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks organizations. He's since spent the last six years playing with various independent clubs.
Dugan's luck changed in 2024 when he joined the Grand Junction Jackalops, who are owned by Tollin. The former Phillies draft bust exceeded expectations during his 63 appearances (225 at-bats) as he amassed 22 home runs, 68 RBIs, and 37 walks while slashing .369/.469/.711.
Tollin was inspired by Dugan's story, resulting in his connecting with the Phillies to try and iron out a spring training opportunity. Fortunately, Thomson & Co. were willing to play ball.
"I think there’s a tremendous empathy among Phillies’ brass," Tollin told Breen. "(Dugan) started in the Phillies’ system. He kept his nose clean, he worked his butt off, he had a solid minor-league career. It’s a gift in a way to him and to us."
It's been an uphill battle to reach this point and even though cracking the Phillies' 2025 roster is a long shot, Dugan won't let any doubts cloud his path.
"I consider it like I’m doing it for all the guys who deserve a second chance," Dugan said. "I’m sticking in there and there’s a lot of guys who are in my position. I’m hoping to make the most of the opportunity."
Philadelphia fans can tune into Dugan's probable spring training debut when the Phillies face the Yankees on Thursday, Feb. 27, airing on MLB Video at 1:05 p.m. ET.