Rob Thomson Announces J.T. Realmuto News at Phillies Spring Training

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Mar 15, 2026 4:09 PM ET

The Philadelphia Phillies are largely running it back with a similar group this year, hoping they can finally break through in October. Philadelphia has had no shortage of regular‑season success, taking home two consecutive National League East division titles, yet the club has not been able to advance past the divisional round of the MLB playoffs.

Fortunately for the Phillies, they brought back several key free agents from last year’s roster on long‑term deals, including catcher J.T. Realmuto, one of the longest‑tenured veterans on the team. Realmuto has been with Philadelphia since he was acquired from the Miami Marlins ahead of the 2019 season.

Last year, the 34‑year‑old took a step backward at the plate, posting a .257 batting average, .315 on‑base percentage, .700 OPS, 12 home runs and 52 RBIs across 134 games. That was a noticeable drop‑off considering his peak as a three‑time All‑Star and three‑time Silver Slugger.

Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto (10) © Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

That is what makes this spring so important for Realmuto as he looks to prove Philadelphia’s decision to re‑sign him to a three‑year, $45 million extension was the right move.

However, Realmuto had not been at camp since Tuesday, and on Sunday, Phillies manager Rob Thomson announced an update as concern grew with Realmuto missing four straight games.

Thomson explained that Realmuto’s absence was due to an illness and that he had been away from camp, but he returned on Sunday, which suggests the issue is now behind him (h/t Destiny Lugardo of Phillies Nation).

Rob Thomson said on the broadcast that J.T. Realmuto has been dealing with an illness the last few days, but he's back in camp today.

He hasn't played in a Grapefruit League game since March 10.
— Destiny Lugardo (@destiny_lugardo) March 15, 2026

With Opening Day just weeks away, Realmuto will likely get enough time to settle back in and regain his rhythm for the upcoming season. He is preparing for his eighth year in Philadelphia, and while his offensive production remains important, the Phillies are also counting on him to continue being a plus defender behind the plate.

After all, Realmuto is a two‑time Gold Glove winner and still one of the most respected catchers in the league. If the Phillies hope to finally make a deeper postseason run, having Realmuto healthy and performing at a high level will be essential to their chances.

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

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