The Philadelphia Phillies have provided limited information regarding their offseason plans, leaving open the possibility of retaining much of their 2022-25 core. Top priorities for free agency include Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto. President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski addressed these issues on Thursday but did not commit to a specific direction.
The team emphasized its 96-win season and strong offensive performance. Dombrowski stated, “Needs to be more change? Well, we won 96 games. Again, you’re always looking to get better. So we will be open-minded to that.” The Phillies cited the Los Angeles Dodgers’ pitching as a key factor in their postseason exit and suggested only a few adjustments might be needed for next season.
Dombrowski identified Schwarber and Realmuto as free agent priorities. Schwarber delivered one of the best offensive seasons by a Phillies player in recent years and is expected to remain productive. Realmuto’s offensive numbers declined in 2025, but he continues to contribute defensively and as a clubhouse leader. Ranger Suárez, another free agent, is considered unlikely to return due to anticipated contract demands. Harrison Bader’s future with the team is uncertain after posting a .796 OPS this season; his previous three seasons were less productive. José Alvarado is expected back with a $9 million club option. Max Kepler and David Robertson will not return, while Jordan Romano and Walker Buehler are also not expected back.
Nick Castellanos is considered the most likely player to be traded or released following a significant drop in performance and reported disagreements with manager Rob Thomson. Alec Bohm and Brandon Marsh could also be trade candidates if prospects Aidan Miller and Justin Crawford are deemed ready for major league roles. Matt Strahm’s future is uncertain following comments about the team’s lack of pitcher fielding practice.
The organization may look to younger players such as Crawford and Andrew Painter for the Opening Day roster, though no positions are guaranteed. Other prospects mentioned include Otto Kemp, Gabriel Rincones Jr., and Miller.
Philadelphia had Major League Baseball’s fourth-highest payroll in 2025 at $290 million and could see an increase if key free agents are re-signed. Dombrowski said, “[Owner] John [Middleton] is very supportive of that. We have a good club with a lot of good players, but you don’t have unlimited [money]. … I don’t think we’re going to have a $400 million payroll. I just don’t think that that’s a practicality, but we will be open-minded to get better and make a move.”
When asked about limiting new contracts to one-year deals beyond retaining their own free agents, Dombrowski responded: “I don’t know, and even if I did I don’t think I’d answer that question. Because I wouldn’t tip ourselves with where we’re going to go this wintertime.”
