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Philadelphia Phillies: J.T. Realmuto expected to test free agency

By David Hill

BUFFALO, NEW YORK - AUGUST 20: J.T. Realmuto #10 of the Philadelphia Phillies signals during the first inning of game one of a double header against the Toronto Blue Jays at Sahlen Field on August 20, 2020 in Buffalo, New York. The Blue Jays are the home team and are playing their home games in Buffalo due to the Canadian government’s policy on coronavirus (COVID-19). (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)
BUFFALO, NEW YORK - AUGUST 20: J.T. Realmuto #10 of the Philadelphia Phillies signals during the first inning of game one of a double header against the Toronto Blue Jays at Sahlen Field on August 20, 2020 in Buffalo, New York. The Blue Jays are the home team and are playing their home games in Buffalo due to the Canadian government’s policy on coronavirus (COVID-19). (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images) /
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According to reports, Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto is expected to test free agency when the season comes to an end.

The Philadelphia Phillies have a major issue to face before the end of the season. J.T. Realmuto is slated for free agency at the conclusion of the year, and as the best catcher in the game today, is certain to receive a lucrative payday.

Given his status in the game, it is understandable that the Phillies would be looking to keep Realmuto. However, there has been little traction in regards to an extension, leaving it likely that he will test free agency once the season is over.

This does not mean that all hope is lost. According to Jim Salisbury of NBC Sports Philadelphia, Phillies general manager Matt Klentak disputed reports that the front office has not spoken to Realmuto’s representatives, saying that was not true. There is, at least, a faint glimmer of hope that a deal can be completed.

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Already a two time All Star and a Gold Glove winner, Realmuto is in the midst of his best season at the plate. He has produced a .268/.344/.545 batting line with a career best 132 OPS+ in his 125 plate appearances, hitting nine homers and four doubles. He has been equally solid behind the plate as well. His four runs saved behind the plate are the best in the National League, and he is fifth with a 35.7% caught stealing rate.

He is also still very much in his prime. Realmuto will not turn 30 until the middle of spring training, and although catchers do age quickly, he has not displayed any signs of slowing down. The Phillies have also been using him at first and as their designated hitter, reducing some of the wear he would otherwise deal with.

The hope remains that Realmuto will stay in Philadelphia. He has been vocal about his desire to remain a member of the Phillies, and the front office definitely has interest in keeping him around. The question is whether or not they can afford to.

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The Philadelphia Phillies are hoping to keep J.T. Realmuto in town. However, it looks like they’re going to have some competition as he is expected to hit free agency this offseason.

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