The Philadelphia Phillies had a surprisingly quiet offseason following their disappointing exit from the 2024 playoffs.
Fans hoped the franchise would pursue generational superstar Juan Soto or trade for All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker to bolster a lineup that has struggled in critical moments.
Neither move materialized. The Phillies never engaged with Soto, who signed a record $765 million contract with the New York Mets, while the Houston Astros traded Tucker to the Chicago Cubs. Philadelphia reportedly offered third baseman Alec Bohm and right fielder Nick Castellanos for Tucker but were rejected.
The team’s only offensive addition was outfielder Max Kepler on a one-year, $10 million contract. The signing felt underwhelming with All-Stars Anthony Santander and Jurickson Profar still available. Additionally, Kepler, a left-handed hitter joining an already lefty-heavy lineup, will play left field for the first time as Brandon Marsh shifts back to center.
The bullpen saw significant changes as All-Star reliever Jeff Hoffman departed for the Toronto Blue Jays. His replacement, Jordan Romano, a two-time All-Star non-tendered by Toronto, appeared in just 15 games in 2024 due to an elbow injury.
The Phillies did strengthen their rotation, acquiring southpaw Jesus Luzardo from the Miami Marlins to replace Taijuan Walker and the revolving door of fifth starters from last season.
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Philadelphia Phillies legend wanted team to do more
Phillies legend Jimmy Rollins, the 2007 National League MVP and 2008 World Series champion, expressed disappointment with the team’s offseason approach.
“Everybody wanted them to do more. I wish they would have done more,” Rollins told Sports Talk Philly. “I don’t know what moves there were to be made. They have budgetary reasons for why they will or won’t do things. But in all honesty, no one is going to be able to keep up with the Dodgers.”
Rollins, who serves as a special adviser to president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski, advocated for extending designated hitter Kyle Schwarber before he reaches free agency after the 2024 season.
“I’d love to see him stay. What he’s done for that team, being a big bat but also a silent presence on the field. He doesn’t say much outwardly, but his presence, when you see him coming up to the plate, something big can happen, and real fast,” Rollins noted.
The Phillies’ projected 2025 payroll of $307 million exceeds MLB’s highest tax threshold of $301 million, triggering a 110% tax on every dollar over the limit.
Despite capturing their first National League East title since 2011, Philadelphia fell to the Mets in four games in the NLDS. They’ll look to break through and win their first World Series in the Bryce Harper era.
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