As the 2025 MLB season approaches, the Philadelphia Phillies are poised to make another strong run at a World Series title. With a roster filled with talent, including stars like Bryce Harper, J.T. Realmuto, and Zack Wheeler, the Phillies are in a solid position to compete. However, despite their impressive roster, there are always opportunities to upgrade, and some key players who could have bolstered their lineup were either available or could have been acquired during the offseason.
As the dust settles on the offseason, here are six players the Phillies may come to regret not acquiring:
1. Cody Bellinger – Chicago Cubs
Once one of the brightest stars in the league, Cody Bellinger’s offensive numbers had taken a dip, but his bounce-back performance in 2024 with the Chicago Cubs might be a sign that the former MVP is back to form. His combination of power, defense, and versatility (he can play center field or first base) would have made him a perfect fit for the Phillies’ outfield. With the Phillies already sporting a potent offense, adding Bellinger’s bat and glove would have provided them with even more depth.
Why the Phillies missed out:Bellinger’s market was red-hot, and while the Phillies had outfield options, acquiring a player with Bellinger’s pedigree could have elevated their playoff hopes even more.
2. Sean Murphy – Atlanta Braves
The Phillies’ catching position is well handled by J.T. Realmuto, one of the best in the business. However, in the event of an injury or a down year, securing a top-tier backup catcher or even a platoon option could have added some insurance. Sean Murphy, traded to the Atlanta Braves from the Oakland A’s, is one of the best all-around catchers in baseball. His exceptional defense and ability to hit for power would have been an incredible asset to the Phillies, particularly in a division that’s bound to be competitive.
Why the Phillies missed out:** While the Phillies have one of the best catchers in baseball, they could have explored ways to improve their depth behind the plate. Letting a premier catcher like Murphy join a division rival could be a regretful oversight.
3. Rafael Devers – Boston Red Sox
The Phillies have a solid infield with Alec Bohm at third base, but the possibility of adding a superstar like Rafael Devers would have taken their lineup to another level. Devers, a dynamic left-handed power hitter, would have provided the Phillies with another bat to complement their right-handed hitters. Devers’ consistency and ability to hit for both power and average would have given the Phillies another cornerstone for the future, solidifying their place among the National League elite.
Why the Phillies missed out:** Acquiring Devers would have required a major trade or a free-agent signing that could have disrupted the payroll structure. However, missing out on such a game-changing talent could be something they look back on as a missed opportunity.
4. Marcus Stroman – Chicago Cubs
A seasoned pitcher with a solid track record, Marcus Stroman could have been a major upgrade to the Phillies’ rotation. Though the Phillies have ace-level talent with Wheeler and Aaron Nola, adding a reliable veteran arm in Stroman would have added depth and stability, especially with the unpredictable nature of starting pitchers. Stroman is known for his control and ability to pitch in high-leverage situations, traits that would have made him a strong addition to the Phillies’ staff, especially in the postseason.
Why the Phillies missed out:** The Phillies opted to focus on their existing rotation, but Stroman’s proven ability to perform in big moments and his consistency could have bolstered their chances down the stretch.
5. J.D. Martinez – Los Angeles Dodgers*
While the Phillies’ offense is strong, adding a veteran like J.D. Martinez could have given them a more potent designated hitter presence. Martinez, who joined the Los Angeles Dodgers after a successful tenure with the Boston Red Sox, remains one of the most feared hitters in the league. With his ability to hit for both power and average, particularly in high-pressure moments, Martinez would have been an excellent addition to an already dangerous Phillies lineup.
Why the Phillies missed out:** Martinez’s power and experience could have been the extra push needed for a deep playoff run. However, with the DH spot being a rotational position, the Phillies may have opted to address other needs.
6. Jordan Montgomery – St. Louis Cardinals
While the Phillies’ rotation has top-tier talent in Wheeler and Nola, the middle of their staff has often been a question mark. Montgomery, who was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, has shown the ability to be a steady, reliable starter in any rotation. His command and ability to get deep into games would have added depth to the Phillies’ staff, allowing them to rest their top pitchers when needed and potentially reduce the burden of a long season. Montgomery would have been a valuable asset to the Phillies’ postseason aspirations.
Why the Phillies missed out:** Montgomery was not a flashy name on the free-agent market, and the Phillies may have prioritized other areas. However, a reliable left-handed pitcher like Montgomery could have helped solidify the middle of their rotation and provided insurance for injuries or underperformance.
Conclusion
While the Phillies have made moves to strengthen their roster this offseason, there are always opportunities to improve. The players listed above would have fit perfectly into Philadelphia’s plans, providing additional depth, power, and versatility. As the season progresses, the Phillies might look back on the 2025 offseason and wish they had pulled the trigger on one or more of these players.
However, in the competitive world of MLB, it’s all about striking the right balance, and the Phillies will certainly have more chances in the future to make big moves and potentially add the missing piece to their championship puzzle.
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