The Philadelphia Phillies’ core is aging and approaching the final years of their contracts. Nick Castellanos and Alec Bohm are set to become free agents in 2027 while Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto are heading into contract years in 2025.
It remains to be seen how Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski and the rest of the staff approach the decisions of extending any of those core players set to hit free agency within the next two years. Some of those players are replaceable with young, intriguing options in the minor leagues or outside options, but Realmuto may be the toughest to replace.
The Phillies have reportedly not approached Realmuto about a contract extension (subscription required), according to Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer. There’s still plenty of time to work out a deal, but they’re playing a dangerous game waiting to discuss an extension with the three-time All-Star.
The Phillies traded for Realmuto ahead of the 2019 season and signed him to a five-year, $115.5 million extension ahead of the 2021 season. He became one of the best all-around catchers in Major League Baseball, earning two Gold Gloves, two Silver Sluggers and two of his three All-Star selections.
Realmuto has consistently been one of the top hitters in the Phillies’ lineup throughout his six-year career in the City of Brotherly Love. He hit 20 or more home runs in three seasons with the Phillies and offers speed on the base paths. He has also been among the best defensive catchers in the league, and arguably the best.
Realmuto dealt with a knee injury in 2024 which eventually led to right knee meniscectomy surgery. He played in just 99 games but still had a solid season. He slashed .266/.322/.429 with a .751 OPS, 18 doubles, one triple, 14 home runs and 47 RBI.
There’s a little bit of skepticism surrounding a potential extension. Realmuto will be 34 years old before the start of the upcoming season. He won’t receive a deal as large as the previous one, but he’ll still command a big payday.
The depth behind Realmuto is also concerning. The Phillies brought back fan favorite Garrett Stubbs, but he provides very little offensive production. Rafael Marchán has shown flashes both offensively and defensively in the majors, but the falloff between the 25-year-old and Realmuto would be significant.
Phillies No. 5 prospect, per MLB Pipeline, Eduardo Tait is still a ways away from making his major league debut. The 18-year-old has a plus arm and above-average offensive ability, but he has yet to play above Single-A.
The Phillies have to decide on Realmuto’s future, and they have to do it soon. The options behind him are not good enough at the moment to ensure a smooth transition if they let him walk after the 2025 season.
