After a rowdy World Series, the Major League Baseball summer has begun. Philadelphia Phillies fans are anxiously awaiting the front office’s planned actions, and some new faces will be needed after all of the expected players opted free agency.
According to the MLB Players Association, nine Phillies players who were on the team’s 26-man roster this season are leaving for free agency: Walker Buehler, Max Kepler, Tim Mayza, J.T. Realmuto, David Robertson, Jordan Romano, Kyle Schwarber, Ranger Suárez, and Lou Trivino.
The most notable names that Phillies fans should be aware of are Schwarber, Realmuto, and Suárez. All three have played important roles in the Phillies’ recent success, dating back to their thrilling run to the World Series in 2022. While the ultimate postseason outcomes have not been announced, losing any of these veterans will be difficult for the front office to replace.
Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto and Ranger Suárez headline nine Phillies opting free agency
Schwarber is expected to cash in after a stellar season during his contract year. Despite being a designated hitter and turning 33 before Opening Day next spring, the slugger is seeking a lucrative multi-year contract. The Phillies have made no secret of their desire to re-sign him, but he will have other options. Until he signs, nothing is guaranteed.
Realmuto is nearing the end of his remarkable career. Given the status of catching, he may get a lot of attention this winter as he approaches his 35th season. Realmuto is not the same backstop who was named an All-Star in 2021 and received MVP votes in 2022.
After seven seasons in Philadelphia, the Phillies will struggle to find a replacement who is as successful in managing the pitching staff.
Suárez has spent his entire professional career with the Phillies, having signed in 2012. The left-hander has developed into a mid-rotation starter capable of Cy Young-caliber outings. He’s unlikely to return, since the 30-year-old appears to be in line for a significant wage increase on a deal that may last up to six years (subscription required).
Free agent gambles that didn’t work out highlight the Phillies’ 2025 season
Outfielder Max Kepler was a $10 million free agent signing that the front staff would probably like to keep. For the majority of the season, the veteran struggled to fill the everyday role assigned to him. He hit just.216 with a.691 OPS in 127 games and will not be in the Phillies’ plans for next season.
When it comes to free agent blunders, Romano was another disappointment. The Phillies’ $8.5 million gamble failed, as the former All-Star closer struggled from the start and never recovered. He had a dismal 8.23 ERA in 42 2/3 innings before being placed on the injured list.
The rest of the bullpen arms leaving for free agency were late-season acquisitions who had a brief stint with the Phillies. Walker Buehler (who started two of his three games), David Robertson, Lou Trivino, and southpaw Tim Mayza filled in for the pitching rotation down the stretch. Unfortunately, none of them emerged as the game-changers the Phillies were looking for.
Expect a lot of movement this winter as the Phillies try to fill roster gaps.