Particle.news
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
3d ago

Harrison Bader Expected to Decline Phillies’ $10 Million Option and Hit Free Agency

Payroll pressure from looming bids for top free agents complicates Philadelphia’s outfield plans.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - AUGUST 29: Kyle Schwarber #12 of the Philadelphia Phillies during a game against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park on August 29, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - APRIL 13: A Philadelphia Phillies hat is seen during a game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium on April 13, 2025 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Joe Puetz/Getty Images)
Image

Overview

  • Bader is expected to reject his side of a $10 million mutual option and enter free agency, with MLB.com reporting the option is not likely to be exercised.
  • The 31-year-old delivered a .305/.361/.463 line with standout defense in 50 games for Philadelphia after a midseason trade.
  • A left hamstring injury in Game 1 of the NLDS limited Bader’s late-postseason availability and underscores his durability questions.
  • Philadelphia is expected to prioritize re-signing Kyle Schwarber, with one analyst predicting the Phillies would match or top a Cubs offer.
  • Reporting suggests the club could move on from Nick Castellanos, while outside predictions link the Phillies to marquee free agent Kyle Tucker as a potential replacement.