The Philadelphia Phillies have remained quiet as their National League East rivals, the New York Mets and Atlanta Braves, made significant roster changes in recent weeks.
The Mets traded outfielder Brandon Nimmo and $5 million to the Texas Rangers for infielder Marcus Semien, ending Nimmo’s decade-long tenure with New York. The move followed a disappointing season in which the Mets missed the postseason after reaching the 2024 NLCS. “I think it’s a recognition that what we did last year wasn’t good enough,” said Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns on Monday. “And running back the exact same group wasn’t the right thing to do.”
Meanwhile, the Braves re-signed reliever Raisel Iglesias to a one-year, $16 million contract and acquired infielder Mauricio Dubón from the Houston Astros.
In contrast, the Phillies have focused on retaining key free agents Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto. According to sources, negotiations between Schwarber and the team are not close to completion. Schwarber’s representatives are seeking a deal that reflects his strong 2025 season, during which he finished second in National League MVP voting behind Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Some within the organization recall similarities to Realmuto’s previous free agency period in 2020-21, when initial demands exceeded $200 million before he ultimately agreed to a five-year, $115.5 million contract with Philadelphia in January 2021.
Despite reported interest from teams like the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds—Schwarber’s childhood favorite—it is seen as unlikely that either club will make an offer sufficient to lure him away from Philadelphia.
The Phillies have also been linked by speculation to high-profile free agents such as Kyle Tucker, Bo Bichette, and Pete Alonso due to their reputation as major spenders. However, indications suggest they may only pursue such players if they do not re-sign both Schwarber and Realmuto or clear salary commitments elsewhere.
To create payroll flexibility, Philadelphia has explored trading Alec Bohm, who is expected to receive a raise through arbitration after earning $7.7 million in 2025. Bryson Stott and Brandon Marsh are considered valuable trade assets as well. Reliever Matt Strahm could be moved despite being one of their most reliable bullpen options over recent seasons; he is set to earn $7.5 million next year.
Outfielder Nick Castellanos is scheduled for a $20 million salary in 2026 but may not return next season unless Philadelphia absorbs much of his remaining contract or opts for his release. Teams such as the Kansas City Royals or Miami Marlins could be potential destinations for Castellanos if there is sufficient interest.
Activity around player movement is expected to increase soon with Major League Baseball’s Winter Meetings set for Orlando, Florida in two weeks.
