The Philadelphia Phillies need to be aggressive and active this winter. Going through the 2025-2026 offseason without making big moves will have the vibes heading into 2026 lackluster.
Signing or trading for big names this offseason will be big in getting fans ready for a huge 2026 season. Kyle Tucker, the top free agent outfielder, would be a perfect fit in right field to replace Nick Castellanos.
However, the Phillies are expected not to pursue Tucker right away. Jim Bowden of The Athletic revealed in a recent piece the one reason why the Phillies aren't going to go after Tucker, and what they're going to be doing instead.
Why Phillies won't pursue Kyle Tucker at start of free agency
"I also think the Giants and Phillies would be great fits," Bowden writes, "But it sounds like the Giants are directing their money toward pitching and the Phillies are trying to retain their own free agents before looking at Tucker."
Philadelphia has a few massive free agents it needs to re-sign, or make the difficult decision to officially let go.
Kyle Schwaber is the biggest name, and the Phillies cannot afford to lose him. He's a higher priority this winter than Tucker, as the fan favorite designated hitter departing would have Phillies fans irate.
Closely behind him is catcher JT Realmuto. There aren't many catchers that are as good as Realmuto offensively, or defensively, let alone both. With few options in the open market and his connection with the pitching staff, Realmuto is a priority for Philadelphia this offseason.
More: Phillies linked to Pete Alonso as a Kyle Schwarber replacement
Ranger Suarez and Harrison Bader are the other two biggest names hitting free agency, and while Bader looks like he's on his way out, Suarez might still be open to coming back.
But, it won't come cheap. Saurez is likely to receive plenty of competitive offers, which could take the Phillies out of his market with their already expensive rotation, and top prospect Andrew Painter waiting for his chance in the Majors.
The Phillies are expected to figure out what to do with these free agents before making any outside moves, which includes Tucker. Fortunately, free agency in MLB goes slowly, so the Phillies might still have a shot at the likely $400 million outfielder this winter.
More Phillies news:
- Phillies' Dave Dombrowski reveals updated Zack Wheeler recovery timeline for 2026 season
- Dave Dombrowski reveals Phillies' free agent plan for Max Kepler
- Phillies' Dave Dombrowski shares four-word message on Nick Castellanos trade rumors
- Phillies expected to bring back Jose Alvarado in 2026 after 80-game suspension