JT Realmuto Open to Spending Rest of Career With Phillies and Isn't Worried About Extension Talks
By Jackson Thompson
Philadelphia Phillies catcher JT Realmuto is taking an uncommon public stance on his contract. Despite being just one year away from free agency, Realmuto is not making ultimatums for a contract extension and has instead emphasized spending the rest of his career in Philadelphia.
Realmuto was drafted by the Miami Marlins in 2010, but was traded to the Phillies in 2019. As a two-time All Star, he is widely regarded as one of the best catchers in baseball. 2020 will be the last year of his arbitration.
JT Realmuto on contract
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) February 16, 2020
“I could see myself staying in Philly and playing my entire career here. Also being 1 year away from free agency, that wouldn’t be a bad thing for me either. But I don’t think it will get to that. I think the Phillies and myself could line up pretty well” pic.twitter.com/0xgWFF4Fd6
Realmuto's comments should provide Phillies fans plenty of excitement moving forward, as he's a key piece to their present and future. While Philadelphia finished short of an NL Wild Card spot last season, their rapid rebuild and presence in Free Agency has netted them a competitive team heading into 2020.
All things considered, why wouldn't Realmuto want to stay?
JT Realmuto worked out today on reporting day
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) February 11, 2020
He has to go to Arizona next week for arbitration hearing. Phillies are offering $10 million. JT wants $12.4
“I know it's not the Phillies trying to slight me. It's more the system. There's no hard feelings” pic.twitter.com/iSjjDCjhL8
Realmuto was an All-MLB First Team selection in his first season in Philadelphia. He will have his arbitration hearing this week in Phoenix. His 2020 salary is expected to be a record for arbitration-eligible catchers.