J.T. Realmuto, Bo Bichette, Philadelphia Phillies, J.T. Realmuto offseason landing [Image Source: MLBSTATIC]
The Philadelphia Phillies face uncertainty surrounding catcher J.T. Realmuto’s future as the offseason nears its end, with less than a month before pitchers and catchers report for spring training. While Realmuto, who will soon turn 35, could finish his career in Philadelphia, the team’s interest in shortstop Bo Bichette signals that Realmuto’s return is not guaranteed, raising questions about where the veteran backstop might sign during the J.T. Realmuto offseason landing.
Evaluating Potential Teams for Realmuto If He Leaves Philadelphia
For Phillies fans, the prospect of Realmuto joining another MLB club is difficult to imagine, yet plausible after months of free agency. The Phillies’ pursuit of Bo Bichette may mark the end of Realmuto’s tenure, prompting a look at which teams would be the most and least welcome destinations for him if they fail to re-sign him.
Teams That Would Be Hardest for Phillies Fans to Accept
The Houston Astros, New York Mets, and Atlanta Braves stand out as the least desirable destinations for Realmuto from the Phillies’ perspective. The Mets and Braves have been fierce rivals, contending for the National League East title in consecutive seasons, making the idea of Realmuto suiting up for either team especially difficult for Phillies supporters. Facing him behind the plate would be an emotional challenge with such intense division rivalries. Similarly, seeing him join the Astros would be painful, given Philadelphia’s 2022 World Series loss to Houston. Although the common saying goes,
Image of: J.T. Realmuto
“if you can’t beat them, join them”
— it’s not a scenario Phillies fans would welcome.
Fortunately for the Phillies and their fans, these teams are unlikely options since all three currently have their catching roles well-covered.
Teams That Would Disappoint But Eventually Be Accepted
Other potential landing spots include the Boston Red Sox, San Diego Padres, and Miami Marlins. Though Realmuto joining any of these teams would initially sting, fans might come to terms with it over time. Both the Red Sox and Padres are perennial postseason contenders, but since they compete in the American League East and National League West respectively, they pose no direct threat to the Phillies in the NL East standings. Phillies supporters could still cheer for Realmuto from a distance.
The Marlins represent a more complicated case. Realmuto began his major league career in Miami, and because the Marlins are an NL East rival, his signing there could cause some discomfort. Still, the Marlins’ potential for youth development and lack of postseason contention lessen the sting slightly.
Teams That Phillies Would Be Neutral About
Beyond these clubs, any other team acquiring Realmuto would be met with comparatively little concern from Phillies fans. Realmuto’s performance has shown signs of decline; at age 35, he slumped offensively in 2025, batting .257 with 12 home runs and 52 RBIs, but his .699 OPS ranked lowest among qualified catchers. While his arm remains a strong asset, his receiver framing leaves improvement to be desired.
Having spent the past seven seasons with Philadelphia, Realmuto has been a key component of the team’s pitching staff and a cornerstone player. Yet with the Phillies actively exploring options, including the potential addition of Bo Bichette, the franchise faces a difficult decision about moving on from one of its greatest catchers.
What Realmuto’s Future Could Mean for the Phillies and Baseball
As the deadline to finalize rosters approaches, the unresolved status of J.T. Realmuto highlights the tension and uncertainty in Philadelphia’s offseason plans. His possible departure would end a memorable and significant chapter in Phillies history, while opening opportunities for new talent in key positions. For Realmuto, landing with a varying set of teams could reshape the late stages of his career, either continuing as an impactful veteran or signaling the final years in the majors. Phillies fans are anxiously awaiting clarity, knowing that whichever path unfolds will significantly influence the team’s competitive outlook in the coming season.
