The Phillies made a move this week that was both expected and necessary - and it came with a bit of a roster crunch.
With J.T. Realmuto officially re-signing on a three-year, $45 million deal, Philadelphia had to clear a spot on the 40-man roster.
The odd man out? Utility player Weston Wilson, who was designated for assignment on Tuesday.
Realmuto’s return is a big win for the Phillies. He’s been one of the most consistent and complete catchers in baseball over the last several seasons, and locking him in for three more years gives the club stability behind the plate as they continue to chase a World Series title. But moves like this come with a cost, and for now, that cost is Wilson’s spot on the roster.
Wilson, 31, is the kind of player every team needs at some point during the grind of a 162-game season - a versatile, experienced depth piece who can fill in across the infield and outfield. He’s played 100 games in the majors, all with the Phillies over the last three years. His career numbers - a .242 average, 11 doubles, nine homers, eight steals, and a .756 OPS in 245 plate appearances - reflect a player who can contribute in spurts, even if he’s not an everyday fixture.
But 2025 was a tough one for Wilson. He hit just .198, his lowest mark in the majors, and that downturn likely played a role in the Phillies’ decision here. When a roster spot is on the line, recent performance matters - and in Wilson’s case, the timing just didn’t work in his favor.
Originally drafted by the Brewers in the 17th round back in 2016 out of Clemson, Wilson took the long road to the majors. He never cracked the big leagues with Milwaukee and became a free agent after the 2022 season. The Phillies picked him up in January 2023, and he’s been a quiet but steady presence in the organization ever since.
Now, he’ll head to waivers. If he goes unclaimed, there’s a good chance he remains in the Phillies system - just off the 40-man for now. And with the way MLB seasons unfold - injuries, slumps, doubleheaders, you name it - there’s always a possibility he’ll be back up at some point.
For now, though, the Phillies are making room for one of their core players to return. Realmuto’s deal is official.
The roster’s been adjusted. And Weston Wilson, a grinder who’s carved out a role the hard way, waits to see what’s next.