It sounds like the Philadelphia Phillies are facing some tough roster decisions as they approach the non-tender deadline, and these could have significant impacts on the team’s composition for the 2024 season. Let’s break down the key points:
- Garrett Stubbs – The backup catcher has been a fan favorite, but with J.T. Realmuto aging and the emergence of Rafael Marchan, Stubbs could be a casualty. His declining performance, combined with his arbitration cost of $1.2 million, may make him expendable, especially if the team wants to go in a different direction with the backup catcher role.
- Austin Hays – After being acquired at the trade deadline from the Baltimore Orioles, Hays didn’t make the impact the Phillies hoped for. At a projected arbitration cost of $6.4 million, he’s the priciest of the three players in question. While Hays’ past All-Star status and potential for more consistent hitting might be appealing, his lack of production with the Phillies makes him a candidate for departure, though Dave Dombrowski’s continued support of him could result in a surprising decision to keep him around as depth.
- Jose Ruiz – As a pitcher who could be on the chopping block, Ruiz may be viewed as a non-essential piece in a bullpen that the Phillies are likely looking to improve. If his performance didn’t live up to expectations, he could be let go to free up roster space and finances.
These decisions will be key as the Phillies continue to shape their roster with the offseason’s bigger moves potentially on the horizon, like acquiring Juan Soto or adding starting pitching help. It’ll be interesting to see how the front office balances short-term costs with long-term plans.
