I wish I could say yes. But he’s going to have some big-money offers, and starting pitching will be a Phillies strength even without him. They won’t be the top bidder and Boras isn’t going to let him take some huge discount to stay. Total bummer.
I love Casty but I think it’s best for everyone if he’s elsewhere next season.
I don’t know who else they could get for catcher that would serve them better than JT, though I hope they can identify an alternative in 2-3 years.
I’d love to see schwarber back but I understand the debate on both sides whether to bring him back, and if there’s a threat from the reds, I would understand the appeal for him.
I have questions about Harper though. He didn’t seem to enjoy himself this past season, and overall it did not feel like he had many “moments.” I’d be lying if i said I didn’t have nights where I said I’d rather keep schwarber over Harper. Could it just be injuries flaring up, or is there more to it? Am I crazy for thinking these things?
Yeah. No hard feelings but it’s hard to see Castellanos back.
They really have nothing brewing in the minors at catcher. Tait was promising but was part of the Durán deal. JT probably more valuable to the Phis than other teams.
Harper wasn’t bad this season, but you are exactly right that his season felt different. Quiet. But he’s not going anywhere for a long time… Schwarber being the big decision does not feel fair but here we are.
You're not alone. So many times he (Harper) seemed to be going through the motions. Like he was giving the bare minimum to a job he resented having to show up for. Whereas Casty made no effort to hide his resentment.
A few weeks ago, as we were walking out of the Bank after the 4-Schwarbomb game, the idea that the Phils would let Schwarber go seemed as likely to me as having a meeting on the 30th of February. But now? I mean… I don’t want to see it happen. But I think I would understand if it did.
Where does Justin Crawford fit into this equation and how would he fit with Bader and Marsh in the OF? Also do you see Aidan Miller making the team out of Spring Training? If not probably Sosa can play 3B for the time being (if Bohm is traded). You’re right when it comes to Schwarber. If brought back you can’t really change the starting lineup all that much with the exception of Crawford and Miller. If Schwarber walks you can probably sign 2 other players. But would those 2 players change the makeup of this lineup and would they match the production of Schwarber? You can go after Kyle Tucker. I’m not the biggest fan of his. He had a pretty good year in Chicago but not great. Chicago sports guys I follow on X are not big fans of his. And if Bohm is traded what can we realistically get back for him? I know with Nick it’s more of a salary dump.
I’ll give you a bold prediction and say Crawford is your opening day left fielder. He has nothing left to prove in triple-A. Bader probably pushes Marsh to RF if he stays, which would feel weird but makes sense.
Would be an insanely good defensive OF, basically 3 center fielders.
I don’t think Miller makes the squad out of spring training BUT I’m really excited about his future. He’ll get a taste of the majors next yr and arrive for real in 2027.
For Bohm you probably get something helpful. 7th-inning type reliever maybe?
Really enjoy the content that you put out. I'm probably in the minority but I would say it might be time to move on from Schwarber, love what he brings but change is needed with the approach up and down the lineup.
This offseason will also tell us a lot about how the Phillies really feel about Justin Crawford. Not sure there’s anything else he can do/prove in LV. Only potential thing is developing as an everyday CF, if they still believe thats even an option, seems like they started prioritizing LF in 2025.
Yeah I’m with you. He def can’t prove anything more in the minors. And if the org doesn’t believe in him, why wouldn’t they have flipped him for immediate help last season? So I think he’ll get his shot.
I guess I’m in the minority about Stott but I feel he should go elsewhere. Throw him in with Bohm and Casty so my “need change” thirst is satiated. I’m ok with Otto at 3rd base and Sosa at 2nd full time. Your potential opening day outfield you wrote about would be awesome.
I don't see how you can replace Schwarbers production. He needs to come back. All this talk shake-up... thing is, the alternative has to be equal to or better than what you have now. There's not a lot of options out there that would make sense for the Phils.
Nightmare scenario: Ohtani moves to P/OF to allow the Dodgers to sign Schwarber. They combine for 100 HR. Pete Alonso signs with Boston, and the Phillies keep Casty as DH hitting 8th. But at least Crawford can get called up.
Love Schwarbs but the idea of running back this lineup does not inspire confidence. 4 years of postseason disappointment/bad losses has been crushing as a fan. Brings to mind the definition of insanity- doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. If Middleton is serious about a championship like he has said, change needs to happen. Great newsletter and I’m glad you’re back!
You know how I feel about Schwarber. Granted, my take is more emotional than statistical (I'm aware his role as DH is critical to the Phils' success) but a team needs a leader, a player fully invested in its highs and lows and that's Schwarber. Take him out of the mix and yes, there's Marsh and others, but he brings that certain stability the team needs, especially now. Harper was originally that guy but let's be real: he's not all in and hasn't been for some time. We need Schwarber.
Welcome back to the writing world John … You’re great at everything you do & this was a great read . I’m actually in the minority that schwarber stays and JT goes . Time will tell , but re inventing yourself within this window will be an interesting task
No trade clause doesn't mean they can't be traded it simply gives the player veto power, I'd put Harper on the list maybe the Yankees would take him maybe not this winter but I'd try to move him surely before he's 38. It was a good signing when it was made. But the most important part of ability is availability and he's likely to continue to miss more & more time as he ages.
Is there any world where Ranger stays? I hear everyone say he’s gone, and I get it. But I still can’t bear the thought of such a great guy leaving
I wish I could say yes. But he’s going to have some big-money offers, and starting pitching will be a Phillies strength even without him. They won’t be the top bidder and Boras isn’t going to let him take some huge discount to stay. Total bummer.
I love Casty but I think it’s best for everyone if he’s elsewhere next season.
I don’t know who else they could get for catcher that would serve them better than JT, though I hope they can identify an alternative in 2-3 years.
I’d love to see schwarber back but I understand the debate on both sides whether to bring him back, and if there’s a threat from the reds, I would understand the appeal for him.
I have questions about Harper though. He didn’t seem to enjoy himself this past season, and overall it did not feel like he had many “moments.” I’d be lying if i said I didn’t have nights where I said I’d rather keep schwarber over Harper. Could it just be injuries flaring up, or is there more to it? Am I crazy for thinking these things?
Yeah. No hard feelings but it’s hard to see Castellanos back.
They really have nothing brewing in the minors at catcher. Tait was promising but was part of the Durán deal. JT probably more valuable to the Phis than other teams.
Harper wasn’t bad this season, but you are exactly right that his season felt different. Quiet. But he’s not going anywhere for a long time… Schwarber being the big decision does not feel fair but here we are.
You're not alone. So many times he (Harper) seemed to be going through the motions. Like he was giving the bare minimum to a job he resented having to show up for. Whereas Casty made no effort to hide his resentment.
A few weeks ago, as we were walking out of the Bank after the 4-Schwarbomb game, the idea that the Phils would let Schwarber go seemed as likely to me as having a meeting on the 30th of February. But now? I mean… I don’t want to see it happen. But I think I would understand if it did.
Welcome back, John. I think we all know it’s time for a shake up but does mgmt? Time will tell.
Where does Justin Crawford fit into this equation and how would he fit with Bader and Marsh in the OF? Also do you see Aidan Miller making the team out of Spring Training? If not probably Sosa can play 3B for the time being (if Bohm is traded). You’re right when it comes to Schwarber. If brought back you can’t really change the starting lineup all that much with the exception of Crawford and Miller. If Schwarber walks you can probably sign 2 other players. But would those 2 players change the makeup of this lineup and would they match the production of Schwarber? You can go after Kyle Tucker. I’m not the biggest fan of his. He had a pretty good year in Chicago but not great. Chicago sports guys I follow on X are not big fans of his. And if Bohm is traded what can we realistically get back for him? I know with Nick it’s more of a salary dump.
I’ll give you a bold prediction and say Crawford is your opening day left fielder. He has nothing left to prove in triple-A. Bader probably pushes Marsh to RF if he stays, which would feel weird but makes sense.
Would be an insanely good defensive OF, basically 3 center fielders.
I don’t think Miller makes the squad out of spring training BUT I’m really excited about his future. He’ll get a taste of the majors next yr and arrive for real in 2027.
For Bohm you probably get something helpful. 7th-inning type reliever maybe?
Really enjoy the content that you put out. I'm probably in the minority but I would say it might be time to move on from Schwarber, love what he brings but change is needed with the approach up and down the lineup.
Thanks, John!
And yeah I’m fascinated to see these poll results. We all love Schwarber *and* we all want big changes. I don’t know how to reconcile those thoughts.
This offseason will also tell us a lot about how the Phillies really feel about Justin Crawford. Not sure there’s anything else he can do/prove in LV. Only potential thing is developing as an everyday CF, if they still believe thats even an option, seems like they started prioritizing LF in 2025.
Yeah I’m with you. He def can’t prove anything more in the minors. And if the org doesn’t believe in him, why wouldn’t they have flipped him for immediate help last season? So I think he’ll get his shot.
I guess I’m in the minority about Stott but I feel he should go elsewhere. Throw him in with Bohm and Casty so my “need change” thirst is satiated. I’m ok with Otto at 3rd base and Sosa at 2nd full time. Your potential opening day outfield you wrote about would be awesome.
I don't see how you can replace Schwarbers production. He needs to come back. All this talk shake-up... thing is, the alternative has to be equal to or better than what you have now. There's not a lot of options out there that would make sense for the Phils.
Nightmare scenario: Ohtani moves to P/OF to allow the Dodgers to sign Schwarber. They combine for 100 HR. Pete Alonso signs with Boston, and the Phillies keep Casty as DH hitting 8th. But at least Crawford can get called up.
Nick you’re the best but I am going to print this comment out just so I can set it on fire
Kill it with fire!
Love Schwarbs but the idea of running back this lineup does not inspire confidence. 4 years of postseason disappointment/bad losses has been crushing as a fan. Brings to mind the definition of insanity- doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. If Middleton is serious about a championship like he has said, change needs to happen. Great newsletter and I’m glad you’re back!
Thanks, Jay! And yeah you nailed it. We love him but what will make next year different.
Glad you’re back, dude! Enjoy your writing and thoughts.
Thanks, Liz! Appreciate that very much.
I would resign Schwarber because he is the team leader/MVP. Losing Schwarber would be bad for the Team and Philly.
You know how I feel about Schwarber. Granted, my take is more emotional than statistical (I'm aware his role as DH is critical to the Phils' success) but a team needs a leader, a player fully invested in its highs and lows and that's Schwarber. Take him out of the mix and yes, there's Marsh and others, but he brings that certain stability the team needs, especially now. Harper was originally that guy but let's be real: he's not all in and hasn't been for some time. We need Schwarber.
It’s a good point. Not sure what the personality of this team would be without him. He feels like their heart and soul.
Welcome back to the writing world John … You’re great at everything you do & this was a great read . I’m actually in the minority that schwarber stays and JT goes . Time will tell , but re inventing yourself within this window will be an interesting task
Sean. My man.
No trade clause doesn't mean they can't be traded it simply gives the player veto power, I'd put Harper on the list maybe the Yankees would take him maybe not this winter but I'd try to move him surely before he's 38. It was a good signing when it was made. But the most important part of ability is availability and he's likely to continue to miss more & more time as he ages.