The Philadelphia Phillies were active at the trade deadline, making several key additions — including the acquisition of Harrison Bader from the Minnesota Twins.
Bader went on to appear in 50 games for Philadelphia, starting 43 of them, and posted an impressive .305/.361/.463 slash line with five home runs. Despite holding a $10 million mutual option for next season, he declined his side of the deal, the team announced on X. After finishing the year on a strong note, Bader will now test the free-agent market in search of a more favorable contract.
A nine-year MLB veteran and former Gold Glove winner, Bader has previously suited up for the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees, New York Mets, Twins, Cincinnati Reds, and Phillies. Known for his reliable defense and capable bat, he remains a valuable outfield option.
The Phillies could consider bringing Bader back, given their current outfield needs and his steady play down the stretch. However, any reunion would hinge on striking a new agreement that reflects his late-season form. According to Spotrac, Bader is projected to land a two-year, $20 million contract in free agency — matching the annual value of his declined option but offering the additional security of a second year.
While he’s expected to draw interest from multiple teams, the question remains whether any club will offer the longer-term commitment he’s seeking.