WATCH: A.J. Pierzynski says Alec Bohm’s attitude landed the Phillies’ third baseman on the trade block

Alec Bohm’s trade rumors are picking up steam, and former catcher A.J. Pierzynski has some pretty blunt thoughts on it.

Appearing on Foul Territory this week, Pierzynski didn’t mince words about Bohm’s attitude, especially after Bohm was benched for Edmundo Sosa in Game 2 of the NLDS—a series where the Phillies got stunned by the Mets.

When ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that Bohm “finds himself on the trade block,” Pierzynski, who had been around the team during that playoff stretch, didn’t hold back.

“The biggest thing I’ll say about Alec Bohm after being around the Phillies in the playoffs,” Pierzynski began, “is that he needs to improve things that aren’t related to his performance. Let’s just say that.”

Pierzynski’s implication is that Bohm has an attitude problem that’s irking some folks in the Phillies’ organization. “People around there said he needs to grow up a little bit. He basically got benched in the playoffs for it,” Pierzynski added, letting fans know that Bohm’s issues might go deeper than just a few tough games.

Pressed by co-host Scott Braun on whether Bohm’s benching was about his play or his behavior, Pierzynski clarified it was a combination. And while he didn’t say it came from Dombrowski or Rob Thomson directly, Pierzynski pointed to reliable insiders who believe Bohm has some maturing to do.

A.J. Pierzynski on Alec Bohm:

"He needs to take the next step as a maturing adult."@AJPierzynski12 said he's heard from people around the Phillies that Alec Bohm wasn't just benched in the playoffs due to poor performance. pic.twitter.com/kiZGwGmRHD

— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) November 12, 2024

Let’s face it, Alec Bohm’s tendency to show his emotions—often in a big way—has become a pattern. It’s one thing to be passionate, but throwing helmets and wearing frustration on your sleeve every time things don’t go right? That’s a different story.

Bohm’s on-field antics have crossed the line from fiery to concerning, signaling a lack of mental toughness and professionalism that’s hard to overlook, especially for a player in his fifth season.

Look back at the series in Kansas City in August. With family in the stands and the Phillies blowing out the Royals, Bohm was still caught sulking on camera after a rough stretch at the plate.

Alec Bohm Crying to Bryce Harper:

Bryce 🤝 Alec pic.twitter.com/t0JxMgLMtd

— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) August 25, 2024

Sure, everyone has bad days, but Alec Bohm’s visible frustration and inability to brush off setbacks aren’t exactly what a team looks for in a mature cornerstone player. Bryce Harper even had to console him publicly—a move that spoke volumes about Bohm’s state of mind in that moment.

And while Bohm has made strides defensively and drove in 97 runs for a second straight season, his behavior could be undermining his progress.

A starting job at third base and All-Star recognition mean nothing if a player’s attitude holds the team back. At 28, Bohm’s emotional outbursts and lack of self-control should be a thing of the past. Instead, they’ve become a recurring issue.

I love Alec Bohm just like everyone else but the broadcast crew needs to stop acting like he’s a young Phillies prospect. Dude is 27 years old 😂

— Drew Smith (@drewmsmith) April 30, 2024

Bohm’s reputation as a passionate player is at risk of turning into a reputation as a player who can’t keep it together under pressure. Phillies fans have seen his growth on the field, but his maturity has clearly lagged behind.

Whether or not he remains with the team, Bohm’s next step needs to be reining in his frustration, or else the Phillies may be better off looking for a third baseman who brings both skill and composure to the table.

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