The MLB offseason has entered a quiet stretch, but speculation continues to build around the Philadelphia Phillies. Following another frustrating postseason exit in 2025, much of the fan base expected the organization to take a more aggressive approach to reshaping the roster. To this point, that surge of activity has not fully materialized.
Philadelphia’s most notable move has been re-signing Kyle Schwarber to a sizable five-year, $150 million contract. Beyond that, additions have been modest. Brad Keller was brought in to strengthen the bullpen, while Adolis Garcia was signed to provide additional depth in the outfield. Despite those moves, the Phillies appear increasingly likely to lose one of their more impactful contributors from last season.
A new projection has now added fuel to that concern. SNY’s Anthony McCarron predicted that Bader could land with a division rival, envisioning him in a New York Mets uniform.
“The Mets also sign free agent outfielder Harrison Bader, who certainly fits. He’s a spectacular defender and this is the Met winter of, well, you know,” McCarron wrote.
“Bader can play center field while the Mets see if prospect Carson Benge really is ready to take over a big league gig. If Benge earns a job, Bader could play some left field, be a defensive replacement, and a righty bench bat. He had career-bests in homers and OPS last season.”
Harrison Bader Was a Key Piece for the Philadelphia Phillies
Bader began the 2025 season with the Minnesota Twins before Philadelphia acquired him ahead of the trade deadline. His arrival made an immediate impact, both on the field and with the fan base. In just 50 games with the Phillies, Bader delivered strong production, hitting five home runs, driving in 16 runs, and posting a .305/.361/.463 slash line.
Supporters hoped his performance would earn him a return to Philadelphia, but that outcome now seems increasingly unlikely. A potential move to the Mets would be a tough pill to swallow. While Bader may not be viewed as a traditional star, he fills an essential role as a versatile, high-impact contributor who affects games offensively and defensively.
What Are the Phillies Looking to Do This Offseason?
Frustration has grown among fans due to the team’s cautious offseason approach, but opportunities still remain. Recently, speculation linking the Phillies to Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette has intensified, with Philadelphia emerging as a possible frontrunner.
Adding Bichette would be a significant boost, though it could come with difficult consequences, potentially requiring the team to move on from veteran catcher J.T. Realmuto. Whether such a move would meaningfully improve the Phillies’ World Series outlook compared to last season is uncertain, but Bichette would offer long-term value as a potential franchise cornerstone.
As the offseason continues, it appears likely that Bader’s time in Philadelphia is coming to an end. At the same time, the door remains open for a major addition like Bichette to arrive, signaling that the Phillies’ roster story is still unfolding.
