The Phillies are running it back with one of their cornerstone veterans. Catcher J.T.
Realmuto is staying in Philadelphia, agreeing to a three-year, $45 million deal that could reach $60 million with incentives. At 35, Realmuto isn’t quite the offensive force he once was, but his value behind the plate still runs deep - and the Phillies clearly believe he’s got more left in the tank.
Realmuto’s 2025 season wasn’t flashy at the plate - he hit .257 with a .315 on-base percentage and a .384 slugging mark, good for a 91 OPS+. He added 12 homers over 134 games, showing that while the pop isn’t gone, it’s not quite what it used to be.
Still, that’s a decent line for a catcher logging heavy innings, and Realmuto’s offensive floor remains serviceable. But this move isn’t just about the bat - it’s about the total package.
And the total package is still impressive.
Realmuto continues to be one of the best defensive catchers in the game, particularly when it comes to controlling the running game. His arm strength, quick release, and game-calling acumen remain elite. Even as the bat trends downward, his presence behind the plate is a stabilizing force for a pitching staff that’s leaned on his leadership for years.
This marks Realmuto’s eighth season in Philly after the Phillies acquired him from the Marlins ahead of the 2019 campaign. He first hit free agency after the 2021 season and returned on a five-year, $115.5 million deal. Now, after reaching the market again this winter, he’s chosen to stay put - a move that gives the Phillies continuity at a premium position.
Over 12 MLB seasons, Realmuto has compiled a career OPS+ of 110, with three All-Star nods and two Gold Gloves to his name. He’s also piled up a 38.7 career WAR, which ranks 17th among primary catchers in the Integrated Era (since 1947). That’s not just longevity - that’s impact.
For the Phillies, this signing is a much-needed win in what’s been a challenging offseason. They’ve taken a few hits - most notably losing left-handed starter Ranger Suárez to the Red Sox and coming up short in their pursuit of free-agent infielder Bo Bichette, who landed with the Mets. But they did manage to lock up slugger Kyle Schwarber on a five-year, $150 million deal, and now they’ve secured their veteran backstop as well.
Bringing Realmuto back doesn’t solve every problem, but it does give the Phillies a trusted leader, a steady glove, and a familiar voice for the pitching staff. In a division that’s only getting tougher, that kind of continuity matters. And while Realmuto may not be the offensive centerpiece he once was, his all-around game still makes him one of the most valuable catchers in the league.
Bottom line: the Phillies are betting that Realmuto’s experience, defense, and clubhouse presence will continue to pay dividends. And for a team with postseason aspirations, keeping that kind of presence behind the plate is a move that makes a lot of sense.