Phillies Add Catcher in MLB Free Agency After J.T. Realmuto Report

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Dec 26, 2025 3:38 PM ET

The Philadelphia Phillies are making adjustments after another early exit in the divisional round of the MLB playoffs. Still, they are keeping some familiar faces, re-signing designated hitter Kyle Schwarber to a five-year deal earlier this offseason.

The next familiar face could be catcher J.T. Realmuto, who has spent the past seven years of his career in Philadelphia.

The 34-year-old veteran showed signs of slowing down last season, finishing with a .257 batting average, .315 on-base percentage, .700 OPS, 12 home runs and 52 RBIs across 134 games.

Even so, Realmuto’s track record speaks for itself. He remains one of the most respected catchers in the game, valued not only for his production but also for his leadership and ability to handle a pitching staff.

Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto (10) © Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Given his experience and presence in the clubhouse, the Phillies may be inclined to bring Realmuto back if the price is right. He offers stability behind the plate and the kind of veteran upside that can help steady a roster looking to push deeper into October.

A report from Andrew Simon of MLB.com noted that he sees little chance of Realmuto leaving Philadelphia.

"While there are reasons for the Phillies to be skittish about re-committing to a catcher who will turn 35 in March and is showing clear signs of decline, there are even clearer reasons for them to bring back Realmuto for an eighth season in Philadelphia," Simon reported on Wednesday.

"This is a team with obvious urgency to capitalize on its championship window and one whose current catching situation without Realmuto is projected at the very bottom of the league. The free-agent market offers no better alternative, while a trade-based solution would be both tough to come by and quite expensive in terms of talent."

Still, the Phillies have taken steps to prepare a contingency plan. On Friday, they added depth at the position by signing catcher Mark Kolozsvary to a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training, according to Will Sammon of The Athletic.

Catcher Mark Kolozsvary has agreed to a minor league deal with the Phillies that includes an invite to major league spring training, league sources said.
— Will Sammon (@WillSammon) December 26, 2025

Kolozsvary has not appeared in the big leagues since 2023 with the Baltimore Orioles, but with a thinner catching situation in Philadelphia, he will have an opportunity to compete.

In limited MLB action, the 30-year-old journeyman owns a .200 batting average with four hits and one home run across 20 at-bats. He spent the 2024 and 2025 seasons in the Red Sox farm system, continuing to refine his game.

Though his offensive track record is modest, Kolozsvary has built a reputation as a reliable defensive catcher, a skill set that has helped him extend his career and earn opportunities with multiple organizations.

For the Phillies, his presence provides insurance behind the plate and a potential depth option should Realmuto depart or injuries arise during the season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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