The free-agent market doesn’t always reward older players, especially for veteran catchers who have already proven everything they need to prove but have slowed down a bit.
However, veterans are still valuable for the right teams, and that should be how the industry views J.T. Realmuto as his next contract comes into light anytime over the next few months.
Realmuto remains one of the most respected catchers in the game as he’s a leader behind the plate, a great game caller for pitching staffs, and a player who has played meaningful October baseball.
Even at 34 years old and his offense slowing down, there should still be a belief that he can help a contender win.
Ryan Finkelstein of Just Baseball came in with contract predictions and landing spots for top free agents, including Realmuto. Finkelstein recently predicted that Realmuto would ultimately return to the Philadelphia Phillies, projecting a two-year, $24 million deal that keeps the veteran catcher with a team he’s been with since 2019.
“My original prediction was more exciting, as I loved the fit of JT Realmuto on the San Diego Padres. After re-signing Michael King however, I don’t think they will spend for a player like Realmuto.
“Instead, I can’t help but think Realmuto ends up back on the Phillies when it is all said and done. Maybe he even settles for a one-year deal to return, but I will stick with my prior contract prediction that he ultimately lands a two-year deal as the top catcher in free agency,” he wrote.
Regarding his first prediction, the San Diego Padres made their financial priorities known, and catcher no longer appears to be at the top of that list.
Philadelphia, however, offers everything he should want. Realmuto knows the staff, the staff trusts him, and the organization understands exactly how to use him.
A two-year deal would give both sides flexibility, though I wouldn’t hate a one-year deal or opt outs after the first season from the Phillies side.
However, as long as the Phillies avoid a long-term commitment at the position for a player of his caliber, it shouldn’t be the worst idea. It may not be the most exciting deal, but it’s one that should probably happen for all involved.
Sadly for Phillies fans who want Realmuto gone, there just aren’t many good catchers out there. For the elite catchers, they aren’t available.