Phillies Lose Player After J.T Realmuto News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jan 22, 2026 4:23 PM ET

The Philadelphia Phillies re-signed catcher J.T. Realmuto to a three-year, $45 million contract on Tuesday. It was another strong move for Philadelphia, as the front office has prioritized retaining key pieces while preparing for the 2026 MLB season.

Realmuto’s production dipped last year, when he posted a .257 batting average, .315 on-base percentage, .700 OPS, 12 home runs and 52 RBIs across 134 games.

Even so, that level of output remains valuable at the catcher position, and the veteran has a chance to rebound in 2026.

Beyond the numbers, the 34-year-old is widely respected for his ability to handle a pitching staff and provide leadership in the clubhouse.

At his peak, Realmuto finished seventh in National League MVP voting and collected three All-Star selections, two Gold Gloves and three Silver Sluggers.

If he can approach that form again, or even deliver something close, the Phillies will have secured a reliable presence behind the plate and a stabilizing force for a roster intent on pushing deeper into October.

Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto (10)© John Jones-Imagn Images

When Philadelphia made the signing of Realmuto official, the roster was already at its 40-man capacity.

To create space, the Phillies designated utility man Weston Wilson for assignment, hoping he would clear waivers and remain in Triple-A as a versatile depth option.

Wilson had shown flashes of value with his ability to play multiple positions and provide right-handed power off the bench, making him a useful insurance piece for a club built around established stars.

In 2024, the 31-year-old owned a .284 batting average, a .347 on-base percentage and an .836 OPS across 40 appearances.

Unfortunately for Philadelphia, that plan quickly unraveled. On Thursday, the Baltimore Orioles claimed Wilson off waivers, officially ending his tenure with the Phillies.

The club acknowledged his departure on X with a parting message that read, “Wishing Wes nothing but the best .”

NF/OF Weston Wilson (DFA’d on 1/20) was claimed off waivers today by the Baltimore Orioles.
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) January 22, 2026

It was a small but telling reminder of how even minor roster moves can ripple through a team’s depth chart, especially for a contender that values versatility.

Depth often proves critical over the course of a long season, and losing Wilson underscores how fragile roster balance can be.

For the Phillies, every decision matters as they attempt to maximize their championship window and maintain stability in a competitive National League.

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

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