The Philadelphia Phillies have had a relatively disappointing offseason and are heading towards basically running it back in 2026.
Kyle Schwarber was the big move of free agency thus far, landing a five-year, $150 million contract with the Phillies. In addition to retaining Schwarber, Philadelphia also brought back veteran catcher J.T. Realmuto.
Unfortunately, the Phillies suffered a tough free agency loss in the form of starting pitcher Ranger Suarez. He ended up signing a lucrative contract with the Boston Red Sox.
Not long ago, Philadelphia had set its sights on signing former Toronto Blue Jays star shortstop Bo Bichette. It appeared that the two sides were going to get a deal done, but the NL East rival New York Mets swooped in and stole him away at the last minute.
With that being said, fans have been waiting and hoping that the Phillies can regroup and bring in more talent to add to what is currently on the roster.
New Philadelphia Phillies Prediction Hints at More Free Agency Action
While Philadelphia has been quiet since the Bichette situation, a new prediction has been made that would see the team add more to the roster.
Mark Feinsand of MLB.com has suggested that the Phillies could target more starting pitching after losing Suarez. However, he thinks that a swing pitcher who could move to the bullpen when Andrew Painter is ready would be the right move.
He also thinks that another bat could be added before the end of the offseason and suggested two potential names to watch.
“The Phillies did their heavy lifting early, re-signing Kyle Schwarber to a five-year, $150 million deal and later bringing back J.T. Realmuto on a three-year, $45 million contract,” Feinsand wrote.
“They lost Ranger Suárez to free agency, and while the plan is for top prospect Andrew Painter to ultimately fill that spot, Philadelphia could look to add starting pitching depth, possibly with a swing-man type who could move to the bullpen when Painter is ready. The Phillies could also use a right-handed-hitting outfielder such as Miguel Andujar or Randal Grichuk.”
Taking a Closer Look at Where the Phillies Currently Stand
On the outside looking in, Philadelphia looks like a potential postseason contender. However, the Phillies are going to have to go through a Mets team that has vastly improved.
Throughout the entire National League, there were a lot of teams who have improved. If Philadelphia wants to be a much more serious contender, the front office can not stand still.
Outside of New York, the Chicago Cubs are one NL team who looks much more prepared to be a World Series contender. Even the Pittsburgh Pirates have taken a big step in the right direction. As for the Phillies, they have arguably gotten worse after losing Suarez.
Only time will tell whether or not Philadelphia chooses to remain aggressive in building its roster. There are still needs that must be addressed. This new prediction gives hope that the Phillies could still make some noise this offseason.
Phillies Land New Prediction for More Free Agency Action