Mets predicted to sign rival Phillies' $10.2M high-contact All-Star to replace Jorge Polanco originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Philadelphia Phillies could have a new-look roster next season as they try to figure out how to get back to the World Series. Their season ended at the hands of the Atlanta Braves in the Wild Card round, which likely isn't how they wanted to go out.
The Phillies will now turn their attention to the offseason, and it remains unclear what comes next for All-Star Alec Bohm.
“Even though it was a dreadful start to the season, it was good to see Bohm bounce back as the season progressed. Overall, .249/.315/.383 with 15 home runs and 88 RBI. The numbers certainly improved for the slugger, and he should be seen as a desirable target in free agency. However, whether or not he will be back with the Phillies remains to be seen. This is a team that is trying to get a little bit younger, and handing out another potential long-term deal to a veteran might not be what they want to do,” SI’s Nick Ziegler wrote.
There is considerable uncertainty surrounding Bohm's future in Philadelphia. Based on the latest speculation, it appears increasingly possible that he will not return.
“It doesn’t sound like Alec Bohm is especially likely to return to the Phillies,” Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly wrote.
Bohm should have several options in free agency, as he is a consistent contact hitter. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand believes Bohm could join the New York Mets and take over at first base.
“The Mets’ production at first base (.667 OPS) was third worst in the Majors, but Jorge Polanco is signed for $20 million next season. Their .684 OPS at third base ranked 19th in the Majors, but with Bo Bichette signed for $42 million in 2027 (with another $42 million player option for ‘28), the hot corner wouldn’t appear to be available. Owner Steve Cohen could look past the money owed to Polanco if he believes Bohm is a good fit for the Mets, who are coming off of two straight seasons without reaching the postseason,” Feinsand wrote.
It is safe to say that the Jorge Polanco experiment hasn't gone according to plan for the Mets. They could use him as a designated hitter or at second base, potentially opening up another spot for Bohm. Bohm still has plenty of upside and could give New York another option in its lineup.
Bohm played on a $10.2 million contract with the Phillies. The Mets could look to poach a player from one of their division rivals as they try to improve their roster. New York will be looking to have a better season, and adding Bohm could help the team accomplish that goal.
More MLB news:
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Yankees predicted to sign $85M former Silver Slugger finalist to revitalize World Series hopes
Phillies predicted to replace Alec Bohm with 39-HR slugger, Triple Crown winner to bolster lineup