Phillies Head to Spring Training with Roster Set-But Questions Linger About Missed Opportunities
Baseball’s back this month, and while the countdown to spring training is always a reason for excitement, there’s a quiet tension surrounding the Phillies as they pack their bags for Clearwater. The team is largely set, but there's still a lingering sense of “what if?”-especially after falling short in the Bo Bichette sweepstakes.
The Phillies were reportedly ready to make a serious financial commitment to land Bichette this offseason. They had the money lined up-roughly $13 million more than their current payroll-but the shortstop chose Queens over Philly, signing with the division-rival Mets. That move not only reshaped the NL East, but also left fans wondering what the Phillies plan to do with that unspent cash.
Don’t Expect a Spending Spree
The short answer? Don’t hold your breath.
Despite having shown a willingness to go above their current payroll for a marquee player, the Phillies aren’t expected to reallocate that money elsewhere this offseason. The bullpen and outfield appear set, at least from a financial standpoint. Adolis García is locked in as the everyday right fielder, Justin Crawford is pegged for center, and the left field mix will likely come down to Brandon Marsh and Otto Kemp.
As for the bullpen, the front office believes they’ve already done the heavy lifting. It’s been a focus in recent offseasons, and now it’s being viewed as a strength heading into 2026. So don’t expect any late additions or surprise signings there.
Rotation Depth Still a Need-but Don’t Expect a Splash
If there’s one area where the Phillies could still make a move, it’s starting pitching depth. But even there, expectations should be tempered.
We’re not talking about a big-name free agent swooping in at the eleventh hour. Think more along the lines of minor-league deals, spring training invites, or internal promotions from Triple-A.
The Phillies have some intriguing arms working their way up through the system, and that’s likely where the reinforcements will come from if needed. It’s not the flashiest approach, but it’s the one they’re rolling with.
Championship Aspirations Meet Financial Reality
This isn’t the kind of offseason update that gets fans rushing to buy tickets, but it’s a reflection of where the Phillies are philosophically. They’ve proven they’re willing to spend-let’s not forget, they’re projected to carry a $325 million payroll this season.
That’s elite territory. But unlike the Mets or Dodgers, who seem to operate with a bottomless wallet, the Phillies are trying to walk a line between aggressive spending and sustainable roster-building.
That means leaning more heavily on the farm system, especially when the marquee free agents don’t land in your lap. And while that’s a tough pill to swallow after seeing the team swing big for Bichette, it’s the reality of trying to keep a championship window open without completely mortgaging the future.
A Missed Opportunity-or a Strategic Pivot?
Fans won’t forget that the front office had the money and the intent to make a major addition. If the season hits a rough patch-or if depth becomes a glaring issue-it’s fair to expect some second-guessing.
Why not reinvest that Bichette money into the rotation or outfield? Why not take one more swing?
But for now, the Phillies are standing pat. The roster is mostly locked in, and the focus shifts to internal development and staying healthy. Spring training will offer the first look at how this group gels-and whether the front office’s bet on stability over late-winter spending pays off.
The pieces are in place. Now it’s time to see if they’re enough.