
The Philadelphia Phillies have made some offseason moves, though none as significant as many anticipated following their disappointing exit in the 2024 postseason.
They signed relief pitcher Jordan Romano to a one-year deal to address the expected departures of Carlos Estévez and Jeff Hoffman. Additionally, outfielder Max Kepler also agreed to a one-year contract and is slated to be the starting left fielder. The rotation received a boost with the acquisition of Jesús Luzardo, who joined the Phillies via trade from the Miami Marlins.
The team is banking on these players to rebound in 2025 after injury-plagued seasons in 2024. However, with other National League contenders making significant additions, it’s likely the Phillies aren’t done making moves.
To free up financial flexibility for additional signings, Philadelphia has been exploring ways to shed payroll. One such effort included placing All-Star third baseman Alec Bohm on the trade block earlier this offseason. With a projected $8.1 million arbitration salary, the Phillies would welcome the chance to move his contract. Similarly, they’ve shopped right fielder Nick Castellanos, who is owed $20 million annually through 2026. Clearing this payroll could position them to pursue a major acquisition, such as signing free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman.
Despite their efforts, a key obstacle remains. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, no team has been willing to meet the Phillies’ high asking price for Bohm.
“The Philadelphia Phillies would have interest, but only if they traded third baseman Alec Bohm, and their steep asking price is why Bohm still remains with the club,” Nightengale reported in an update regarding the team’s interest in Houston Astros star Alex Bregman.
Trade talks surrounding Bohm have also been slow due to the availability of other high-profile options on the market. St. Louis Cardinals veteran Nolan Arenado has been mentioned in rumors, though his no-trade clause could prevent a move to specific teams.
For now, unless the Phillies lower their demands or other situations evolve, Bohm appears set to remain their starting third baseman heading into the 2025 season.
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