There is one clear free agent left on the Philadelphia Phillies wishlist: veteran catcher J.T. Realmuto. While the Phillies and Realmuto are interested in a reunion, talks have stagnated.
It's been reported that the Phillies have an offer on the table for Realmuto, but as the veteran catcher looks to land a better deal, the two sides have slightly drifted apart.
According to Matt Gelb of The Athletic, the latest update on Realmuto's free agency is a concerning one for the Phillies. As Christmas approaches, the two sides are in a contract standoff.
Phillies, J.T. Realmuto in contract standoff
"The Phillies and Realmuto are locked in a standoff, league sources said," Gelb reports. "The club has discussed various multi-year offers with Realmuto, who continues to explore the market."
It's not for a lack of trying, but the Phillies and Realmuto are still apart on a free agent contract. There's been some good news previously reported, with other clubs not showing such strong interest in Realmuto, or not willing to go to a multi-year deal.
But the Phillies are willing to spend a decent amount on a multi-year contract to Realmuto this offseason. And yet, the veteran catcher has declined such offers.
The two sides reuniting this winter is the most likely possibility, but this report is a bit concerning news for the Phillies. It's concerning enough that the Phillies are beginning to evaluate the free agent and trade market for catchers.
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The 34-year-old catcher regressed a bit in 2025 compared to years prior, hitting.257, but with a.700 OPS, the lowest mark of his MLB career since his second season in the Majors back in 2015.
Finding a replacement for Realmuto won't come easily, so the Phillies' preferred outcome would be to just bring him back. But, with the two sides in a standoff, both are now exploring life without the other this winter.
There's still plenty of time for a deal to be reached, but this report is a concerning one, as it indicates the two sides are further apart than previously reported, and alternatives are very much on the table.
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