Phillies Add An All-Star Player
The Philadelphia Phillies have added an experienced infielder/outfielder to their roster, signing free agent Whit Merrifield to a one-year contract worth $8 million, with a club option for 2025. The deal is pending a physical.
Merrifield, 35, is a three-time All-Star who can play multiple positions, including second base, outfield, and even some shortstop. He spent most of his career with the Kansas City Royals, where he led the American League in hits and stolen bases twice. He was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays last season, where he hit .272 with 11 home runs, 67 RBIs, and 26 steals in 145 games.
The Phillies hope that Merrifield can provide some depth and flexibility to their lineup, as well as a right-handed bat off the bench. He could potentially platoon with Brandon Marsh in left field or fill in at second base when Bryson Stott needs a rest. He could also be a pinch-hitter or pinch-runner as needed.
Merrifield is known for his durability and consistency, as he has played at least 145 games in each of the last four seasons. He has a career batting average of .284 and an OPS of .765. He also has 131 career stolen bases, which ranks 10th among active players.
The Phillies are coming off a successful 2023 season, where they made it to the National League Championship Series. They lost to the Arizona Diamondbacks in the NLCS who ultimately fell to the Texas Rangers in the World Series. Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Philly has luckily retained most of their core players, including Bryce Harper, JT Realmuto, Nick Castellanos, Zach Wheeler, and Aaron Nola.
With Merrifield on board, the Phillies have a more competitive roster as they hope to be one of the National League favorites in 2024. He will join the team for spring training, which starts next week in Clearwater, Florida.
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