The Philadelphia Phillies entered the offseason with one clear objective behind the plate: finding a solution to the vacancy created when J.T. Realmuto reached free agency. Reuniting with the longtime catcher has always been one possible path, but as the calendar moved closer to Christmas, the lack of visible progress has raised eyebrows.
A recent update from 97.5 The Fanatic’s Colin Newby adds another layer of concern for the Phillies. While a deal between the two sides cannot be ruled out, Newby reports that there is a significant hurdle that could ultimately prevent a reunion from happening.
“However, in Realmuto’s case, the idea to avoid underpaying ‘because you think you can’ is much more prevalent,” Newby wrote. “Why? He, quite simply, didn’t feel very appreciated when he negotiated his previous contract with the Phillies entering the 2021 season.”
That lingering frustration appears to be more than just background noise. The disconnect between Realmuto and the organization could end up being the deciding factor in whether he returns to Philadelphia or looks elsewhere. If trust and appreciation are central issues, money alone may not be enough to bridge the gap.
Realmuto’s previous agreement with the Phillies was a five year, $115.5 million contract. As Newby pointed out, that deal came together “despite a reported initial asking price over $200 million.” Falling that far short of expectations has reportedly left a lasting impression on both the player and his camp.
Realmuto’s agent, Jeff Berry, has openly expressed dissatisfaction with how those negotiations unfolded, particularly during the arbitration process.
“We lost based on another nonsensical, backroom arb precedent that catchers can only be compared to other catchers to determine salary,” Berry said. “This blew my mind away. This blew J.T.’s mind away.”
Those comments, combined with Newby’s reporting, cast serious doubt on Philadelphia’s chances of bringing Realmuto back. Even with a clear need at catcher, the Phillies appear unwilling to stretch beyond their valuation, especially as they look to manage payroll responsibly.
At the same time, Realmuto does not seem enthusiastic about the current offer on the table, a stance that may be influenced as much by past feelings as by present dollars. The relationship strain stemming from earlier negotiations could be playing a larger role than the Phillies anticipated.
As the offseason continues, this situation remains one of the more compelling storylines to watch. Realmuto’s future may ultimately be decided not just by years and money, but by unresolved tension between the catcher, his representatives, and the organization he once anchored.