The Phillies made a splash by signing Adolis García to a $10 million deal, addressing a clear need in right field. Nick Castellanos hadn’t locked down the position the way Philadelphia had hoped, and García-an All-Star with pop in his bat and a cannon for an arm-fills that gap with authority.
But the move raised an important question: What does this mean for J.T. Realmuto?
Let’s get this out of the way-Philadelphia’s plan for Realmuto hasn’t changed. Despite the hefty price tag on García, the Phillies are still all-in on trying to bring back their longtime catcher.
According to Dave Dombrowski, the front office views the outfield as set with García, Brandon Marsh, and promising young talent Justin Crawford. But behind the plate?
That’s still Realmuto’s domain, if they can get a deal done.
Realmuto, 34, remains one of the most respected backstops in the game. Even as he enters the latter stages of his career, his combination of defensive leadership, game-calling, and offensive production makes him a rare asset. And with the free agent catching market looking thin, the Phillies know that letting him walk would leave a sizable hole in both their lineup and their clubhouse.
The García signing didn’t take them out of the Realmuto sweepstakes, but it did raise eyebrows about how much more spending the team might be willing to do this winter. Dombrowski has made it clear: the Phillies want to win, but they’re not going to throw money around without purpose. Realmuto, however, is one of those players they see as worth the investment.
There’s already an offer on the table for Realmuto. Now, it’s a waiting game.
Negotiations are ongoing, and while there’s no clear timeline for a resolution, the Phillies remain the most aggressive suitor. This could very well be the last major contract of Realmuto’s career, and Philadelphia is doing what it can to make sure he finishes it in red pinstripes.
Bottom line: The García deal filled a need. But it didn’t change the Phillies’ priorities. They still want Realmuto anchoring their battery, and they’re ready to pay to keep him there.