The Philadelphia Phillies have one of the game’s most respected backstops in J.T. Realmuto, and they doubled down on that this offseason by re-signing the veteran to a three-year, $45 million deal. But while Realmuto remains a steady presence behind the plate, the organization’s catching depth chart thins out quickly after him - and that could be a concern sooner rather than later.
Rafael Marchán and Garrett Stubbs are set to battle it out this spring for the backup role, a competition that’s already drawing attention in Clearwater. But beyond that duo, the Phillies’ pipeline at catcher is looking pretty bare. Caleb Ricketts, the club’s No. 22 prospect, and Kehden Hettiger, ranked No. 23, are both in camp as non-roster invitees, but neither is viewed as a surefire long-term answer behind the dish.
That’s where an intriguing development out of Pittsburgh could open a door.
A Surprise Opportunity: Sebastián Pérez Back on the Market
Last week, news surfaced that the Pittsburgh Pirates had “lost” Sebastián Pérez - the consensus top catcher in the 2027 international free agent class. While Pérez wasn’t officially signed (international players in that class can’t ink deals until next January), these agreements are often all but finalized well in advance through verbal commitments. So when a team “loses” a player like this, it’s a big deal.
And Pérez isn’t just any prospect. According to multiple scouts, he’s being touted as one of the most complete international catching prospects in recent memory. Analyst Wilber Sánchez described Pérez as a rare blend of Aaron Judge’s power, Elly De La Cruz’s speed, and Yadier Molina’s defensive instincts - a lofty trio of comps, to be sure, but ones that speak to the level of buzz surrounding the 16-year-old.
If even part of that projection holds true, Pérez could be a franchise-altering addition for a team willing to invest.
Why the Phillies Should Be Paying Close Attention
The Phillies are in a position where a move like this makes a lot of sense. Realmuto will be 37 by the time his new deal expires, and while Marchán and Stubbs are capable backups, neither projects as a long-term everyday starter. Beyond that, the system is light on high-upside catching talent.
Ricketts, 25, has shown some flashes, and Hettiger, 21, has tools worth watching. In limited action last year with Double-A Reading, Hettiger slashed .182/.308/.318 in 22 at-bats - not eye-popping numbers, but he did launch a grand slam and even swiped a base, showcasing a little pop and athleticism. Still, these are developmental pieces, not cornerstones.
Pérez, on the other hand, has the potential to be just that. And with the Pirates seemingly out of the picture, the Phillies could have an unexpected shot to swoop in and secure a long-term solution at a position that’s notoriously hard to fill.
Building a Pipeline Behind the Plate
Catcher is one of the most demanding positions in baseball, both physically and mentally. It’s not just about hitting - it’s about managing a pitching staff, controlling the run game, and being the field general.
That’s why organizations that can develop their own catchers are often a step ahead. Think of the stability teams like the Cardinals and Giants have enjoyed in past decades with homegrown talent behind the plate.
The Phillies haven’t had that kind of continuity in recent years, relying instead on trades and free agency to fill the gap. But adding a talent like Pérez could change the conversation. Pairing him with Hettiger and continuing to explore options in the Rule 5 Draft or upcoming amateur drafts would give Philadelphia a much-needed foundation at the position.
Even if Pérez is still years away from the majors, the upside is too big to ignore. Catchers with his combination of tools don’t come around often - especially not in the international market. If the Phillies are serious about building sustainable success, this is the kind of move that could pay dividends down the road.
What’s Next?
For now, the Phillies’ focus is on spring training and figuring out who backs up Realmuto in 2026. But the front office should already be looking ahead. With Sebastián Pérez unexpectedly back on the board, the opportunity is there to make a bold move for the future.
And in a sport where catching depth can make or break a season - or a pitching staff - that kind of foresight could be the difference between staying competitive and falling behind.