Rob Thomson told reporters at the Winter Meetings that the Phillies are not ‘shopping’ Alec Bohm

Phillies manager Rob Thomson took some time at the Winter Meetings to address one of the biggest rumors surrounding his team this offseason: Alec Bohm on the trade block.

While the Phillies are clearly open to exploring moves to shake up the roster, Thomson made it clear that they aren’t actively shopping their 2024 All-Star third baseman.

Thomson, who spoke with Alec Bohm on Monday, said he felt it was important to call the young slugger directly. “This guy’s a really good player, and we’re not shopping him,” Thomson told reporters. “But because he’s a good player, there’s a whole lot of interest in him from other teams. So, obviously, you have to do your homework and talk to people and listen.”

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Alec Bohm is currently in Houston, hitting and working out in preparation for 2024, and according to Thomson, he’s in great shape. The Phillies skipper’s goal in reaching out was simple: ease Bohm’s mind amid the media speculation.

“This is probably the first time he’s ever gone through something like this, so I just want to ease his mind,” Thomson said. “It’s part of the business… because it’s the first time, I thought it was important to reach out.”

The increased trade chatter around Bohm isn’t entirely surprising. After all, he’s coming off a career year, hitting .284 with 20 home runs, 37 doubles, and 97 RBIs, and establishing himself as a key piece of the Phillies’ offense. But the rumors have likely been unsettling for a player who hasn’t dealt with this level of speculation before.

One thing Thomson was quick to address is the perception of Bohm’s “immaturity,” an idea that has gained some traction due to his visible frustration on the field—think helmet slams and bat tosses. “I don’t know where that comes from,” Thomson said bluntly.

Alec Bohm is just an emotional guy…

“He is an emotional guy. He cares a great deal, and so he shows emotion. Believe me, he’s not the only one on the club that shows their emotion and slams a helmet or a bat every once in a while. That just shows me he cares.”

While Bohm did get benched in Game 2 of the NLDS, it’s clear the Phillies still value him highly. And they should. At just 27 years old, he’s a cornerstone piece who’s still improving. Could the Phillies move him if the right deal presents itself? Sure, anything is possible. But as of now, it sounds like they’d prefer to keep Bohm in red pinstripes.

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

For Alec Bohm, the offseason might be filled with speculation, but it’s also a chance to show he’s ready to take another step forward in 2024. If the Phillies’ front office agrees with Thomson, don’t be surprised if he’s back at third base come Opening Day—emotions and all.

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