Realmuto, 2020 Phillies profiting from a rule change

Realizing one small detail, the Phillies faithful can now view the trade for the All-Star catcher acquired by general manager Matt Klentak with less concern and more confidence for ’20 and beyond.

Massaging the extension numbers:   

When the Philadelphia Phillies moved their top prospect and best MiLB pitcher with their developing receiver to the Miami Marlins for J.T. Realmuto, the fan base had mixed emotions. What will happen if Realmuto tests free agency after only two campaigns in Philly? Now: What rule change?

"IN OTHER WORDS: “Knowledge is the driving force that puts creative passion to work.” – Maurice Sendak"

Because the Fightins agreed to $488 million in commitments last offseason, their new tally is at $186.34 million AAV (average annual value), which is under the CBT (competitive-balance threshold) of $208 million. And their goals are a contract extension for Realmuto, two starters, two relievers and a third baseman.

Conveniently, the rule change in 2011’s CBA (collective bargaining agreement) allows the Phils to sign Realmuto now with the 2021 season as the pact’s first year. As for 2020, the estimated arb amount is $10.3 million included in the $186.34 million AAV. So, Klentak can re-up Realmuto for $20 million per 162 with no affect on ’20.

Realmuto will benefit because his deal will now be separate from the organization’s financial situation regarding the rotation and relief corps. Additionally, the team will also profit by limiting the backstop’s AAV to $10.3 million or so for 2020, so they can completely address their pitching shortcomings.

With $21.66 million AAV available, Klentak must replace regulars who have in-house alternatives to increase that tally and pick up hurlers. Basically, Maikel Franco ($6.7 million AAV), Odubel Herrera ($6.1 million AAV) and Cesar Hernandez ($11.8 million AAV) would add $24.6 million AAV: The new total would be $46.26 million AAV.

How healthy Seranthony Dominguez is, and the bullpen role the execs believe he can handle will determine their decisions for the five-man staff and the back end of the pen. But if he can field critical innings with Hector Neris, Klentak may ink a solid fireman and swap for a developing flamethrower as a backup plan.

Meanwhile, Cole Hamels is willing to accept a one-summer offer of $15 million, but Klentak could creatively include $5 million guaranteed for a second campaign, easily attainable incentives, and an opt-out clause after ’20 to engineer a $10 million AAV. Plus the GM can ink Hamels and monitor the top free-agent starters.