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Phillies' Three-Time All-Star Reveals Retirement Plan

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sterling Bennett | Last updated Jun 28, 2025 7:00 AM ET

J.T. Realmuto has been a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Phillies for nearly a decade. Now in his seventh season with the club, the 34-year-old catcher remains one of the most respected and accomplished players in baseball, but questions about his future are beginning to surface.

The three-time All-Star has long been regarded as one of the premier backstops in the game. However, in the final year of his contract and nearing the age of 35, his next move may be shaped by life off the field as it as by what happens on it.

“I do want to play as long as I can,” Realmuto told The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal. “I want to keep my body in the best shape I can. I want to continue to have fun. I’ll know when it’s time to hang ‘em up. If I’m not productive, if I’m not helping the team, I’m not going to try to get to the number 40.”

Though Realmuto insists his body feels great, his production has dipped slightly from a season ago with a slash line of .240/.307/.354 through 66 games. Yet, statistics may not be the only factor in his decision to keep going.

“If my kids get to an age where they want daddy home… that will probably be a day I hang it up as well,” he said. “Either my performance or body will tell me first, or my family will.”

Realmuto has nothing left to prove and is heralded as one of the best catchers of the last decade. His candid comments make it clear he is not interested in padding a resume and will step away if his play slips or his family needs him home. For the Phillies, that uncertainty could impact the length, value, and likelihood of any potential deal this offseason.

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

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