Phillies’ 3 Players on the Chopping Block Before Non-Tender Deadline

The Philadelphia Phillies are taking a slow, measured approach this offseason. So far, there haven’t been any flashy moves.

The MLB non-tender deadline is looming, and it’s at the heart of their roster decisions. This deadline will shape the futures of several arbitration-eligible players on the team.

Most of these players seem likely to return. Still, a few face an uncertain future as the front office weighs the budget and the team’s depth at each position.

This moment might quietly shape the Phillies’ 2026 campaign. Their choices here could influence how aggressive they get in free agency and trades.

Understanding the Non-Tender Deadline

The non-tender deadline sits at a crucial point in MLB’s offseason. By this date, teams have to decide whether to offer contracts to their arbitration-eligible players for the coming season.

If a team declines to tender a contract, that player instantly becomes a free agent. It’s a move that usually means the team wants to go in a new direction.

Why It Matters for the Phillies

This process feels even more important for Philadelphia right now. Their roster and payroll are in a tricky spot.

With nine players up for arbitration, the Phillies have to balance financial realities with what they need on the field. The pressure is on, especially with the goal of making another playoff run.

Safe Bets to Stay

Six guys in the Phillies’ arbitration group seem just about untouchable at the moment:

These players bring reliability that’s tough to find elsewhere. The Phillies value their steady roles and what they offer beyond just stats.

Players in Question

Three names stand out as real question marks. Each one faces a different kind of uncertainty.

Garrett Stubbs

Stubbs, now 32, is well-liked in the clubhouse. But he spent most of 2025 in Triple-A.

His leadership matters, but the Phillies probably can’t justify a roster spot for him if there’s little upside left. Letting him go could give younger, cheaper players a shot.

Rafael Marchán

Marchán looks likely to stick around, mostly because the Phillies don’t have much catching depth. He’s projected to make about $1 million in arbitration, which isn’t bad for a backup to J.T. Realmuto.

His bat cooled off in 2025, but the front office still trusts his defense and thinks he can chip in some offense when needed.

Alec Bohm

Bohm’s situation is a bit of a puzzle. He’s set to make around $10.3 million in arbitration, but his power numbers slipped even though he hit .287.

The Phillies could take a gamble and non-tender him, but it feels more likely they’ll offer a deal and see what trade offers come up. Maybe there’s a third base upgrade out there if they play their cards right.

The Front Office Balancing Act

Philadelphia’s front office walks a tightrope: they need to manage costs but can’t afford to weaken the team. Arbitration salaries aren’t final, but they do shape how much room the Phillies have to maneuver in free agency.

Potential Strategic Moves

The team might use these tender decisions to boost their trade leverage. Players who return through arbitration can still be traded, so the Phillies keep their options open.

That flexibility could help them add depth, shore up the pitching staff, or find a spark at third base if the right opportunity pops up.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The non-tender deadline doesn’t get the flashy headlines like those wild offseason signings, but it’s still a big deal for shaping the roster. When the Phillies look at players like Bohm, Marchán, and Stubbs, they’re really sharpening their strategy for a season where, let’s be honest, everyone expects them to be in the playoff mix.

As the deadline creeps closer, fans should probably expect Philly to stick with the main contributors. They’ll make some tough calls on role players who just don’t fit the new plan.

The National League is packed with competition right now. Sometimes, these little tweaks end up deciding whether you play deep into October or head home early.

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