Breaking down the Phillies’ free agents and arbitration-eligible players this offseason

As soon as the World Series in the books, the MLB offseason is officially underway. For the Phillies, it starts with a crucial five-day window where they can negotiate exclusively with their own free agents. After that, it’s open season, and players are free to sign anywhere.

Phillies’ Free Agency Dilemma: Hoffman vs. Estevez

The two biggest names hitting free agency are relievers Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estevez. Dave Dombrowski, the team’s president of baseball operations, has already made it clear that retaining both is unlikely.

Each is expected to command multi-year deals worth around $12 million per year—an expensive price tag for a bullpen that already has some significant pieces in place. So, it looks like the they will have to choose one or let both walk and explore the market for more cost-effective arms. The other notable free agent is Spencer Turnbull, but beyond him, the crop is pretty thin.

Arbitration Decisions Loom Large

The Phillies have nine players eligible for arbitration this offseason.

• Ranger Suarez: Entering his final year of arbitration, Suarez is expected to see a bump from $5.05 million to around $8 million. He’s been a key piece of the rotation, so the Phillies might also consider an extension to keep him in Philly long-term.
• Alec Bohm: After winning his arbitration case last year, earning $4 million, he’s in line for a raise to around $8 million. Bohm’s future remains one of the most interesting storylines for the Phillies this offseason- listed as the Phillies player most likely to be traded.
• Bryson Stott & Brandon Marsh: Both are entering their first year of arbitration and will go from earning just under $770,000 to an estimated $3-3.5 million range. The Phillies’ dynamic duo is due for well-deserved pay raises.
• Edmundo Sosa: He earned $1.7 million last year and could be looking at a jump to around $3 million in arbitration. He’s been a valuable utility man, and his versatility keeps him in the mix.
• Kolby Allard & Garrett Stubbs: Both are in Year 2 of arbitration and could earn around $1 million each. Stubbs might be replaceable if the Phillies are ready to give Rafael Marchan a shot as J.T. Realmuto’s backup.
• Jose Ruiz: Likely to return as an affordable bullpen option, Ruiz should earn less than $2 million and provides depth to the pitching staff.
• Austin Hays: He’s the likeliest non-tender candidate. Hays made $6.3 million last season and is projected for a similar salary, which could be tough to justify for a team looking to maintain payroll flexibility.

Arbitration Battles on the Horizon

Players and teams will exchange arbitration figures by mid-January, with hearings set for February if no agreements are reached before then.

Last offseason, the Phillies settled with all their arbitration-eligible players except for Bohm, who won his case in arbitration. League-wide, it was the first time since 2019 that more players won cases than teams, so the stakes are high.

What’s Next for the Phillies?

Dombrowski and the Phillies front office have a lot to sort out.

Whether it’s deciding which reliever to prioritize in free agency or navigating potential extensions for players like Suarez, Stott, and Bohm, the Phillies need to be strategic.

With big questions in arbitration and a tight budget, the Phillies’ offseason could shape the roster for 2024 and beyond.

Join The Chase