Phillies' J.T. Realmuto gets $14 million contract update amid uncertain future

The talk of the offseason for the Philadelphia Phillies will be centered around Kyle Schwarber. 

Until Schwarber makes a decision, rightfully so, fans will be holding their breath, hoping that he returns. 

However, the Phillies also have some other free agency decisions to make, including one with J.T. Realmuto. Throughout his career, Realmuto has proven that he can be an above-average player, especially behind the plate. 

What's the latest on J.T. Realmuto?

In his prime days, there weren't many better options behind the dish than Realmuto defensively. His offensive game has been above average as a catcher for much of his career, despite some struggles over the past few seasons. 

Depending on the price, the Phillies may not be able to keep him. 

They don't exactly have a perfect option to replace him as of now, and there aren't many free agent catchers who could realistically come in and do what Realmuto does defensively. 

That's something they have to factor in, which is why Jim Bowden of The Athletic still thinks he could be in for a decent payday. 

“Age is catching up with Realmuto, who won Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards in 2022 but has been in decline since. However, he still holds his own offensively and defensively. His power is diminished as his home runs have gone from 20 in 2023 to 14 in 2024 to just seven so far this year. 

“But he still ranks in the top percentile in pop time and in the 96th percentile in caught stealing above average. His framing and blocking skills are graded as well below average at this point, but he’s lauded for his game calling and pitchers love throwing to him,” Bowden wrote.

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Despite all the good Realmuto does behind the plate, Spotrac doesn't expect him to get paid handsomely. They have him at a market value of $13.7 million over two seasons, which comes in at about $6.8 million per year.

At $6.8 million AAV, if Realmuto is willing to take that contract with the Phillies, keeping him around should be something the organization considers.