The Philadelphia Phillies have observed significant roster changes among their National League East competitors in recent weeks. The New York Mets traded outfielder Brandon Nimmo and $5 million to the Texas Rangers in exchange for infielder Marcus Semien, ending Nimmo’s decade-long tenure with the Mets. The Atlanta Braves re-signed closer Raisel Iglesias on a one-year, $16 million contract and acquired infielder Mauricio Dubón from the Houston Astros.
Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns addressed the moves on Monday, stating, “I think it’s a recognition that what we did last year wasn’t good enough, and running back the exact same group wasn’t the right thing to do.”
In contrast, the Phillies have not made major transactions so far this offseason. Team officials indicate that they do not plan to make reactive moves based solely on rival activity. Instead, Philadelphia has focused on efforts to re-sign free agents Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto.
Negotiations with Schwarber remain ongoing and sources say the two sides are not close to an agreement at this time. Schwarber’s representatives are reportedly seeking a deal that reflects his strong 2025 season, during which he finished second in National League MVP voting behind Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
There is precedent for extended negotiations with key players; J.T. Realmuto’s previous free agency included an initial request for over $200 million before he signed a five-year, $115.5 million contract with Philadelphia in January 2021.
While other teams such as the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds have been linked to Schwarber—due in part to his local ties—the likelihood of either team making a competitive offer is considered low.
Philadelphia has also been mentioned as a potential destination for free agents like Kyle Tucker, Bo Bichette, and Pete Alonso due to its history as one of baseball’s higher-spending organizations. However, indications suggest these pursuits would be unlikely if both Schwarber and Realmuto are retained unless payroll adjustments are made elsewhere.
To create flexibility, the Phillies have explored trade options involving Alec Bohm, who is entering his third year of arbitration eligibility after earning $7.7 million last season. Bryson Stott and Brandon Marsh are also considered valuable assets should other teams seek Major League talent. Reliever Matt Strahm could be available despite being one of Philadelphia’s most reliable left-handed bullpen arms over the past three years; he is under contract for $7.5 million in 2026.
Outfielder Nick Castellanos is set to earn $20 million next year. While it would be unexpected for him to return with the Phillies in spring training, moving his contract may require Philadelphia to absorb much of his remaining salary or consider releasing him outright. Teams such as the Kansas City Royals or Miami Marlins could be possible trade partners, though interest remains uncertain.
Activity around Major League Baseball is expected to increase soon as Winter Meetings approach in Orlando, Florida in two weeks.
