The Phillies are bringing back veteran outfielder Oscar Mercado on a minor league deal, after his recent release from the D-backs. Mercado, represented by Excel Sports Management, spent the 2025 season with the Phillies’ Triple-A team in Lehigh Valley, where he had a noteworthy performance.
In his age-30 season, Mercado played 115 games and made 477 plate appearances, posting a .249/.369/.373 slash line. He showcased his versatility with 11 homers and an impressive 40 steals, while maintaining more walks (14.5%) than strikeouts (14.3%). Although his spring stint with the D-backs resulted in a .242/.265/.333 line over 34 plate appearances, the Phillies are opting to bring him back to bolster their depth.
Philadelphia’s decision to re-sign Mercado comes as they start the season with top prospect Justin Crawford in center field. Despite Crawford’s promising potential, the 22-year-old has yet to make a major league appearance and had a modest spring showing with a .250/.291/.346 line over 55 plate appearances. The team’s options are further limited with Johan Rojas sidelined for the first half of the season due to an 80-game suspension.
The Phillies have also signed utilityman Dylan Moore, who has some center field experience, though he’s more comfortable in the corners. Brandon Marsh, primarily a left fielder, has center field experience but is seen as a below-average defender in that role. Pedro León, another 40-man roster option, has limited major league experience and played just 25 games last year due to injuries.
Mercado, who last played in the majors in 2023, hasn’t been able to replicate his strong rookie season from 2019 with Cleveland, where he hit .269/.318/.443 with 15 homers and 15 steals. However, his solid Triple-A track record and ability to cover all three outfield spots make him a valuable asset for the Phillies as they navigate their early-season roster challenges.