Phillies get concerning J.T. Realmuto free agent update

Matt Sullivan

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Phillies get concerning J.T. Realmuto free agent update image

The Philadelphia Phillies have a big priority this winter to plug the catcher hole that J.T. Realmuto left behind as he hit free agency.

While a free agent deal with Realmuto is an option, the lack of progress or reports indicating as such leading up to Christmas has been concerning.

A recent report from 97.5 The Fanatic's Colin Newby is a concerning one for the Phillies' chances of re-signing Realmuto. While the two sides could still agree to a deal, there's a blockage that could hinder those chances.

Phillies get concerning J.T. Realmuto free agency update

"However, in Realmuto's case, the idea to avoid underpaying 'because you think you can' is much more prevalent." Newby writes. "Why? He, quite simply, didn't feel very appreciated when he negotiated his previous contract with the Phillies entering the 2021 season."

This disconnect between Realmuto and the Phillies is a major concern, as it could be the deciding factor between a reunion and not.

His previous deal with the Phillies was a five-year, $115.5 million contract. As Newby mentioned, that deal was signed "despite a reported initial asking price over $200 million."

With Realmuto falling well below expectations, it's hardly a surprise that he feels slighted by the Phillies organization. But, he's not the only one. His agent also feels the same way.

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"We lost based on another nonsensical, backroom arb precedent that catchers can only be compared to other catchers to determine salary." Jeff Berry, Realmuto's agent, said. "This blew my mind away. This blew J.T.'s mind away."

This comment from Berry, and the reporting from Newby, has the Phillies' chances of re-signing Realmuto in great doubt.

Despite the Phillies clear need at the position, they aren't going to overpay for Realmuto, and the veteran Phillies catcher is seemingly not interested in the Phillies offer, thanks in part to a potentially frayed relationship from their prior contract talks.

This will be an interesting case to follow as the offseason progresses, as Realmuto could wind up not in Philadelphia thanks to some minor beef between the Phillies, Realmuto, and his representatives.

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Contributing Writer