The Philadelphia Phillies appear to be done with major free-agent signings. That comes directly from Dave Dombrowski, president of baseball operations. However, a trade cannot be ruled out. The Phillies, like most organizations, are prepared to take on guys who can help them now while still retaining some team control.
The Phillies might use another senior outfielder and bullpen help. It’s clearer what the Phillies’ asking price might be if they go shopping. According to Alex Coffey of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Phillies have garnered interest from at least three teams. Those teams appear to be dangling aid at places where the Phillies are interested, but the price — at least for the time being — is not what the Phillies are willing to pay.
These organizations appear to be interested in two Phillies prospects: shortstop Bryan Rincon and catcher Eduardo Tait. According to MLB.com, both are among the Top 30 Phillies prospects, although both are at least two years away from contributing to the Phillies at the major league level. Tait, ranked No. 23 overall, is the more highly regarded prospect.
He finished his first season in 2023 and MLB.com forecasts he won’t be ready until 2028. The Phillies will need to replace J.T. Realmuto at some time. Caleb Ricketts, the team’s No. 15 prospect and highest-rated catcher, might be ready by 2025. Tait received $3 million in international bonus money in January of last year and is highly regarded after hitting.333 in the Dominican Summer League. Rincon is ranked 28th and is expected to be called up in 2026. Rincon spent the season at High-A, and with Trea Turner in the second year of a 10-year contract, he may not be able to go to the Majors.
He batted.234 last season and hasn’t showed much power so far. If the Phillies are seeking for a reliever or a fifth outfielder, the price does not appear to be prohibitively high. However, it is unclear what these teams are giving, which may be why the Phillies are holding on to the pair for the time being.
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