MAJOR BOOST: Cash In Coming as Phillies’ Three-Time Silver Slugger Expected to Sign $50 Million Deal,“ seems like the natural fit”
The Philadelphia Phillies are aiming to rebound from a disappointing playoff exit in 2025, returning with a core of veteran stars who could be facing their last shot at a World Series title.
Entering next season, the team has the second-highest payroll in Major League Baseball, with significant salaries allocated to players like Zack Wheeler and Bryce Harper. One of their top veteran players, J.T. Realmuto, is set to earn $23.8 million in the final year of his contract.
Depending on the outcome of the 2025 season, the Phillies might look to keep their core together for a bit longer. If that’s the case, re-signing Realmuto will be a priority, but it won’t come cheaply. Matt Davis of This Ball’s Outta Here recently estimated that an extension for Realmuto could cost around $50 million, noting that Wheeler may also want to remain paired with Realmuto through his own contract, which runs through 2027.
“Given the state of the Phillies’ options at catcher, what could a possible extension look like for Realmuto?” Davis asked. “Considering the battery of Realmuto and Wheeler, a deal of three years, $50 million might be realistic to keep them together for the next three seasons.”
Such an extension would give Realmuto a star catcher’s salary through his age-36 season. While he’s been one of the most durable players in baseball, there are concerns about how this type of deal might age.
Realmuto underwent knee surgery last season and played in the fewest games of his career, aside from the 2020 pandemic-shortened season. Despite earning three All-Star selections, two Gold Glove Awards, and three Silver Slugger Awards, his offensive numbers declined in 2024.
“The downside is, he’s in his mid-30s, coming off possibly the worst offensive year of his career, and had knee surgery in June,” Davis explained. “Realmuto isn’t done yet, but the years are dwindling.”
As his production declines, the roster ages, and the need for an impact catcher increases, the Phillies may face a tough decision after Realmuto’s current contract ends. Locking him into a new deal would likely come at a steep price.
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