The same issues that derailed the Philadelphia Phillies’ 2024 season in the NLDS have reappeared in April 2025. The offense continues to struggle with runners in scoring position, while the bullpen fails in critical moments. After being swept by the New York Mets in a three-game series at Citi Field, here are seven concerns that the 13-12 Phillies must address.
Bullpen among league’s worst
The Phillies’ bullpen has struggled in the first month, ranking 25th in WHIP (1.53), 29th in ERA (5.56), last in batting average allowed (.283), and first in blown saves (7). Jordan Romano, a non-tendered free agent from the Toronto Blue Jays, has a concerning 13.50 ERA. Orion Kerkering (6.48 ERA), Joe Ross (5.68 ERA), Carlos Hernandez (7.88 ERA), and Jose Ruiz (6.75 ERA) have all underperformed.
Bases loaded paralysis by offense
The Phillies’ offense stagnates when the bases are loaded, batting only.154 (4-for-26), which ranks 25th in baseball. Their situational hitting extends beyond the bases, as they hit.251 with runners in scoring position, placing 14th in MLB.
J.T. Realmuto’s declining production
J.T. Realmuto isn’t making a compelling case for an extension as he approaches free agency at the end of the season. The 34-year-old catcher is hitting.233/.309/.342, with one home run and an 82 OPS+. He’s grounded into four double plays in 20 games while striking out 24 times. With Realmuto nearing 35 before the 2026 season and no clear replacements in the minors, his prolonged deterioration presents a difficult decision for the front staff.
Trea Turner $300 million deal turning into albatross
When Trea Turner signed his 11-year, $300 million contract, many saw him as the final piece of the Phillies’ championship puzzle. That vision has yet to materialize. Despite making the All-Star team last year with 21 home runs, an.807 OPS, and a 123 OPS+, Turner was only 3-for-15 in the NLDS against the Mets, striking out five times. This season, his chase rate sits at 28.7% with a 30.6% strikeout rate. He has one home run,.684 OPS, and a 93 OPS+.
Alec Bohm’s slow start
Alec Bohm, the third baseman, has recently shown flashes of life, with a nine-game hitting streak that has improved his average from.156 to.211. However, his season figures are still concerning:.508 OPS, 42 OPS+, no home runs, and an NL-leading five double plays. After earning his first All-Star starting spot in the first half of 2024, Bohm has struggled since midway through last season. His name came up in offseason trade talks, but no deals occurred.
Brandon Marsh’s offensive disappearance
Before being placed on the injured list with a slight hamstring strain, Brandon Marsh went hitless in April, producing a.095/.220/.167 slash line with an OPS+ of just 10 — meaning he fared 90% worse than the league average hitter. The Phillies committed to Marsh as their everyday center fielder, giving him opportunities against left-handed pitching despite prior problems versus southpaws. The Phillies will send him on a minor league rehab assignment in the hopes that he will regain his swing. His future role is uncertain if improvements do not materialize.
Aaron Nola’s concerning decline
This Aaron Nola is very different from the pitcher that Phillies fans are familiar with. He’s 0-5 with a 6.43 ERA. Nola has given up an NL-leading 20 earned runs in 28 innings, including six home runs. His velocity has decreased in 2025, which is particularly alarming for a pitcher who has never depended on overwhelming stuff. Nola has given up at least 30 home runs in each of the previous two seasons. The Phillies are desperate for him to return to form.