Phillies’ Strategy: Options If J.T. Realmuto Leaves
As J.T. Realmuto’s free agency looms, the Philadelphia Phillies are contemplating their catching options should he decide to leave. The team has emphasized re-signing Realmuto, but alternatives must be considered if they cannot reach an agreement.
Phillies’ Catching Options if J.T. Realmuto Leaves
Realmuto, who has been a key player for the Phillies since 2019, is set to turn 35 in March. As such, his health management may become a priority for the organization. The team’s president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, has consistently stated the importance of retaining Realmuto. However, the clock is ticking as multiple free agents have signed, raising concerns about the catcher position.
Internal Options
- Rafael Marchán: Marchán, 26 years old, is currently the backup catcher with limited experience as a starter. He had a batting average of .210 and an OPS of .587 in 2025, with only 30 starts due to Realmuto’s heavy workload.
- Garrett Stubbs: Stubbs spent most of 2025 in Triple-A, boasting a .265 batting average and a .754 OPS, although he has not exceeded 54 games in the majors.
If Realmuto does not return, the Phillies will rely heavily on the Marchán-Stubbs duo, which poses a significant risk given both players’ histories and performance levels. Enhancements may be needed in the form of additional minor league signings for catching depth.
Free Agency Alternatives
The free-agent market for catchers is thinning. Realmuto remains the top choice, but others are available:
- Victor Caratini: The 32-year-old has been a steady presence, hitting .259 with a .324 on-base percentage over 114 games in 2025.
- Jonah Heim: Recently nontendered, Heim was an All-Star and Gold Glove winner in 2023, but he managed only a .213 batting average in 2025.
Both Caratini and Heim would be seen as steps down from Realmuto in terms of overall performance, especially defensively.
Trade Possibilities
If the Phillies consider trades to fill the catcher position, potential options include:
- Ryan Jeffers: The Twins catcher has been retained but might be available as they rebuild after a trade-deadline sell-off.
- Tyler Stephenson: With the Reds solidifying their infrastructure, Stephenson could become expendable, given his .231 batting average in 2025.
While securing a comparable replacement for Realmuto will require effort, the Phillies have several pathways to explore if they cannot retain their star catcher. The organization must act decisively to fill any potential gaps in their roster.
