the Philadelphia Philistines have made an offer of five years worth “slightly” more than $ 100 million to free agent receiver JT Realmuto, according to journalist Jayson Stark of The Athletic. It is the second such offer the team has made to Realmuto since last spring, according to USA Today reporter Bob NIGHTENGALE, who adds that there is “a wave of optimism” that Philadelphia will sign again. to the twice All- star.
Realmuto, 29, spent the previous two seasons in Philadelphia, where the former Marlin continued his career as the senior receiver of the Majors. Realmuto made it known during those two years that he wanted to remain a long-term Phillie, so it’s no surprise that the team is making a serious effort to keep him. The Phillies have “started to position themselves as the favorites” in the Realmuto derby, Stark writes, in part because other potential suitors appear to be disappearing.
The Mets, who looked like one of the favorites to get Realmuto when the low season started, hired James McCann. The Yankees will likely not be in the mix after agreeing to re-sign second baseman DJ LeMahieu for $ 90MM and retain receiver Gary Sanchez.
The Angelinos may not be involved after agreeing to sign Hawaiian backstop veteran Kurt Suzuki on Friday, while Stark notes that the Rangers “seem unlikely” to hand out a nine-figure contract at this time.
The Stars seem to fit Realmuto, but as the recipient of the qualified offer, signing Realmuto would require giving up the draft selections and, reportedly, do not dare to do so. The Nationals have shown interest in Realmuto, although it is unknown if they are willing to hand over more than $ 100 million in this case. The Realmuto draw can ultimately be reduced to the Filis and Tiles, who have apparently participated in all the star players this winter.