The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly making significant strides in their efforts to secure free agent Bo Bichette, as highlighted by Jon Heyman of the New York Post during his recent appearance on MLB Network. According to Heyman, there appears to be growing momentum in Philadelphia’s pursuit of the two-time All-Star shortstop.
On Monday, the Phillies held a meeting with Bichette, who is fresh off an impressive 2025 season where he hit 18 home runs, amassed 44 doubles, and recorded 94 RBIs over 139 games. His .311 batting average and .923 OPS during Toronto’s playoff campaign showcase his talent and value as a key player. Rivals in the league are starting to see the Phillies as strong contenders for Bichette’s signature, positioning them as his most serious suitor.
However, the Phillies currently face a challenging situation regarding their payroll. They are in a “stare down” with catcher J.T. Realmuto, after extending a three-year contract offer to him. MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki suggests that the team would need to clear salary commitments to accommodate the signing of Bichette, given that they already hold the fourth-highest projected payroll for the 2026 season, according to FanGraphs.
Realmuto, who has spent the last seven seasons with Philadelphia, experienced a dip in performance last year, hitting .257 with 12 home runs and 52 RBIs. His .700 OPS marked the lowest of his tenure with the team, leading to speculation about a potential change in scenery for the veteran catcher amidst these ongoing negotiations.
The Phillies’ pursuit of Bichette reflects their ambition to compete aggressively in the upcoming season, and the potential acquisition could significantly bolster their roster. As they navigate the complexities of free agency and player contracts, fans remain hopeful for positive developments that could reshape the team’s future.