According to MLB.com expert Mike Petriello, Phillies should prioritize re-signing Realmuto because if he leaves, the team will only have an inexperienced catcher duo, Rafael Marchán and Garrett Stubbs — an “unreliable” option for the most important position on the court.
Petriello wrote: “It’s been a long time since Philadelphia had to worry about the catcher position. Since Jorge Alfaro started playing regularly in 2018, J.T. Realmuto has become the team’s most valuable catcher and arguably one of the best catchers in all of MLB.”
J.T. Realmuto is not just a star player, but the heart of the Phillies locker room. He is a three-time All-Star, a Gold Glove winner, and considered one of the most complete catchers in MLB. Despite turning 34 and showing slight declines in both offense and defense, Realmuto maintains an excellent average performance, far surpassing current or free agent options.
Over the years, Realmuto has led the Phillies through difficult times, ensuring team stability and inspiring younger teammates. He not only scores points and assists the pitching staff, but also sets the tempo of the game, manages the locker room, and is a symbol of fighting spirit.
Rumors about Realmuto’s potential departure have caused concern among Phillies fans and sparked heated debate on social media. Fans emphasize that no one can replace the 34-year-old, both in skill and spirit:
“If Realmuto leaves, the Phillies will lose the heart of the team. There is no one to replace him!”
“34 years old is not a problem. His experience and leadership are extremely important for next season.”
Realmuto’s return will provide crucial morale and tactical strength, especially as the Phillies aim for the NL East and the 2026 postseason.
With Kyle Schwarber back, the Phillies now have the opportunity to retain another top-class free agent, strengthening the roster and enhancing the balance between experience and youth. Petriello emphasized that the most viable solution is to re-sign Realmuto on a short-term contract, maintaining roster stability while ensuring financial flexibility.
MLB experts analyzed: “No free catcher on the market can compare to Realmuto. This is an opportunity for the Phillies to retain their icon and continue building their long-term strategy.”
Keeping Realmuto not only ensures quality defense and offense, but also boosts pitchers’ confidence in each game, creating a more stable game tempo and reducing pressure on younger players.
As a catcher, Realmuto is the most crucial link in every situation: from managing the pitcher and reading the game to communicating tactics. Without him, the Phillies will have to rely on an inexperienced duo, putting their season strategy at risk.
Realmuto’s return also sends a strong message about ambition, identity, and loyalty to the core players, something both fans and experts appreciate.
If the Phillies successfully re-sign Realmuto, they will enter the 2026 season with a balanced and experienced roster, ready to compete in the NL East and advance deep into the postseason. The 34-year-old star will continue to be the heart, soul, and spirit of the team, helping the Phillies maintain their competitive edge and fighting spirit.
