Phillies expected to be big players for loaded FA class of shortstops
The Phillies are reportedly ready to shell out a ton of money next offseason to land a top shortstop.
The Philadelphia Phillies have been spending like a winner the past few years. Fans are hoping actual wins come as a result in 2021.
The Phillies have not been to the postseason since 2011 and haven’t even finished above .500 since then either. Bryce Harper signed his mega-deal and J.T. Realmuto is making record money as a catcher. Another down year for the team could mean the spending takes another big jump next winter.
MLB insider Jon Heyman recently reported that the Phillies are one of several teams ready to go all-in on next year’s loaded class of free agent shortstops.
Teams seen as likely to become big players for star SS Francisco Lindor, Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and/or Javier Baez should they become free agents after the season include the Rangers, Giants and Phillies, as I just said on @MLBNetwork
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 10, 2021
Phillies ready to spend even more on an elite shortstop
Francisco Lindor is set to be the star of the class if he reaches the open market. He and the New York Mets are currently engaged in extension talks and it would be a shock if they let him walk after the 2021 season.
Javier Baez, Corey Seager and Carlos Correa all stand out as homegrown players in big markets who are facing monumental seasons in 2021. It would not be a shock if all three stayed put, but that is certainly not a given.
Trevor Story is the one player who may hit the open market without even considering with his current team. His Colorado Rockies traded away Nolan Arenado, and Story may think he could be moved as well even if he were to sign a major deal.
The Phillies signed Didi Gregorius in 2020 and he played in 59 games at shortstop last season. Former shortstop Jean Segura split time between second and third base. Both are under contract in 2022 and Segura has a no-trade clause in his deal. The team chasing after a top free agent likely means Gregorius would be on the move.
The front office in Philadelphia would obviously prefer a player like Lindor or Seager over Gregorius. They will just have to find a way to convince ownership to keep spending and to also convince these elite shortstops that they can win with the Phillies.
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