3 Phillies offseason decisions that already look genius early, 1 that looks awful

The Philadelphia Phillies have done well during the first week and a half of the season, winning their first three series. They also handed the Los Angeles Dodgers their first two losses of 2025 en route to a 7-2 record.

Some of the Phillies' offseason moves have contributed to their good start. The organization hopes the moves continue to pay off, particularly at the end of the regular season and in the playoffs should they qualify. The roster looks to have solid depth based on the performances of some of their bench players and pitchers at the end of their starting rotation.

Every year, teams make tough decisions as some players head for free agency and sign contracts with other franchises. The Phillies did not have too many free agents last year but experienced some changes. What decisions made by the front office this winter look good so far, and which ones don't look good for the team early in the regular season?

3 genius decisions the Phillies made this offseason

Here are three Phillies' offseason decisions that already look genius, followed by one choice that looks awful early in the regular season.

1. Signing Max Kepler to an affordable short-term deal

Philadelphia entered another offseason in which they were limited in how much they could spend due to their high payroll. Aside from bringing back Aaron Nola on a long-term deal following the 2023 season, the organization has not been considered a destination for some top free agents in the last two winters.

The Phillies' thin outfield depth was noticeable at times last year. They didn't sign any top free agents at the position group this offseason due to their payroll and any penalties they would incur. However, several players could be signed to short-term contracts.

The Phillies had an opening spot in their outfield following the decision to non-tender Austin Hays, making him a free agent. They added Max Kepler on a one-year, $10 million deal. The former Minnesota Twins outfielder is tasked with being the Phillies' starting left fielder, despite his lack of playing time at the position previously in his MLB career. He also dealt with knee injuries that limited him to 105 games in 2024.

The signing has paid off so far for Philadelphia. Kepler had an exceptional spring training, leading all Phillies starting position players with a 1.175 OPS in 17 contests. He tied Edmundo Sosa for the team lead in RBI with 11. The outfielder also did well in getting on base, tying three players with 10 walks. He also tied for the team lead with three home runs. His three doubles tied with seven other players for the second most on the team.

Kepler has performed decently over the first week for Philadelphia, including a three-hit game in the club's home opener. He's only hitting .179 in the early-going, but leads the team with seven walks, while only punching out six times. He ranks as one of their top position players with a .700 OPS.

Playing in a power-hitting lineup and at a batter-friendly home ballpark has the potential to pay off for Kepler this season. So far, the signing has benefitted the 32-year-old and the Phillies.