The Philadelphia Phillies are approaching a critical juncture as the arbitration deadline looms, with decisions to be made on several key players. After last offseason’s arbitration loss to Alec Bohm, the Phillies are aiming to avoid a repeat scenario and manage a growing payroll.
Bohm, who secured a $4 million salary in 2024 after winning his arbitration case, is projected to earn $8 million or more for 2025, according to MLB Trade Rumors. The third baseman had another strong season, slashing .280/.332/.448 with 15 home runs and 97 RBIs. While his 2024 numbers were similar to 2023, his All-Star selection and participation in the Home Run Derby have solidified his value.
Joining Bohm as a significant arbitration case is pitcher Ranger Suárez, who is projected to earn $8.9 million. Suárez had a career year in 2024, posting a 12-8 record with a 3.46 ERA and earning his first All-Star nod. With 145 strikeouts and a career-best season behind him, Suárez is poised for a substantial payday as he enters his final year of arbitration eligibility.
To mitigate the bill, the Phillies have already made strategic moves. They non-tendered outfielder Austin Hays, who was projected to earn $6.4 million, and outrighted pitcher Kolby Allard, avoiding his $1.1 million projection. Additionally, Philadelphia signed backup catcher Garrett Stubbs to a split contract worth up to $925,000 and locked in pitcher Jose Ruiz on a one-year, $1.255 million deal.
The deadline to reach deals and avoid arbitration is Jan. 9. If agreements aren’t reached by then, the Phillies and their players will exchange salary figures, with arbitration hearings set for February. However, negotiations can continue after the deadline, and multi-year extensions remain an option to bypass future arbitration battles.
Team president David Dombrowski acknowledged the challenges of arbitration season, emphasizing the importance of maintaining harmony with key players. “We’re committed to finding solutions that work for both the players and the organization,” he said.
As the Phillies navigate these negotiations, the stakes are high for a team aiming to stay competitive while managing its financial commitments.
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