The Philadelphia Phillies have scheduled a video meeting with free agent shortstop Bo Bichette, and many believe it was to entice JT Realmuto to re-sign early with them.
The Phillies might not be able to afford both Realmuto and Bichette, as if they do that, given the projection, they might attract luxury tax penalties for going above the threshold.
As such, many believe the latest Phillies move concerning Bichette was actually an attempt to get leverage over Realmuto’s camp. However, MLB insider Ken Rosenthal doesn’t think so.
“It seems that this all emanated from their frustration, or at least their inability, to sign J.T. Realmuto quickly,” Rosenthal said. “Now they’re looking at other ways to go about building their team, and we’ll see how it all plays out. Some people have asked, ‘Well, are they just trying to leverage J.T. Realmuto with Bichette?’ I don’t see that at all.
“They’re two different categories of players, two different categories of what they will cost. This is simply another idea for them: to get a younger position player into an older group and maybe go about it that way.”
If there is no hidden agenda behind the Phillies’ move for Bichette, as even Rosenthal suggested, the franchise would need to fill the catcher spot with a less expensive free agent or internal option. Moreover, adding Bichette would also likely lead to infield reshuffling.
For the Phillies, Realmuto is a valuable catcher with strong defense and leadership. The Phillies have tried bringing him back, but so far, the negotiations have hit a wall, prompting the club to build the team through other players.
How Bo Bichette Would Potentially Fit With Phillies?
Bo Bichette missed several games in 2025 due to a knee injury, but he still managed to hit .311 with 18 HR and 94 RBI. The two-time All-Star would significantly boost the Phillies’ run production if the franchise does sign him this offseason.
However, the Phillies will need to sort some things out to positionally fit Bichette, given they already have Trea Turner at shortstop and Bryson Stott at second base. According to Phillies sources, the best possible scenario would require Bichette to play third base. However, the former Blue Jays star has never played that position in the majors.
To fit Bichette at third base, the Phillies might trade third baseman Alec Bohm to clear that spot. If Bichette insists on playing second base, a trade for Stott or moving him at third base is a possibility.
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