Re-signing Kyle Schwarber to a long-term contract is the biggest move the Philadelphia Phillies have made this offseason. They have yet to resolve one loose end, though.
Re-signing J.T. Realmuto, their All-Star catcher, is that loose thread. Zachary Rotman of Fansided thinks Philly should re-sign him because their current catchers aren’t nearly as excellent as him and there aren’t any better ones available.
“J.T. Realmuto is the best choice by far, and the catcher market is extremely weak.” Given this, he ought to be able to determine his optimum landing point and have a solid understanding of his market by now.Realmuto’s desired contract length is unlikely to be granted by the Philadelphia Phillies, but what other option is there? Is a catcher duo of Rafael Marchan and Garrett Stubbs truly what they want? In a win-now year, do they want to sign a lesser free agent? Is there a viable alternative that would be worth swapping for? Rotman stated, “It seems like the Phillies can’t afford to let Realmuto walk, even if it’s an overpay.”
Despite having a poor season, Realmuto managed to put up respectable stats and slash.257/.315/.384/.700 with 52 RBI, 12 home runs, and 26 doubles. He is among the top defensive catchers available because he has won two Gold Gloves while behind the plate.
It is anticipated that he will sign a $25 million, two-year contract. The Phillies would be foolish not to make that offer to him given his output.
With the offseason coming to an end, the Phillies need to concentrate on other things, so hopefully they will re-sign him soon.
