5 Phillies whose futures depend on promising 2025 postseason performances

Many Philadelphia Phillies players' futures depend on promising performances this postseason. The franchise enters another World Series or bust scenario beginning with Game 1 of the NLDS on Saturday. In three consecutive trips to the playoffs, this roster has been unable to win a championship despite being one of the best clubs over the last few regular seasons.

The Phillies turned in an underwhelming performance versus the New York Mets last October. If Philadelphia is eliminated early in the postseason again, there will be serious questions about the direction of the franchise that will be posed by the fan base and local and national media this offseason.

5 Phillies whose futures depend on promising 2025 postseason performances

Nick Castellanos, OF

Nick Castellanos had a volatile second half of the regular season. Manager Rob Thomson demoted him to a platoon in right field after he hit .180 in August. The decision initially did not sit well with Castellanos, but he has since stated that winning the World Series takes precedence over his playing time.

While trade rumors should be taken at face value, could the Phillies trade Castellanos this winter? There is one year remaining on his contract beyond this season, and the team may decide to cut ties with the veteran this offseason if he doesn't pull his weight in the playoffs.

Ranger Suárez, LHP

Ranger Suárez is a pending free agent who is expected to receive a multi-year contract. Will it be with the Phillies? It appears unlikely, considering Philadelphia's stacked starting rotation under contract for 2026. Prospect starting pitcher Andrew Painter is also anticipated to be promoted next year.

Suárez will be motivated not only to help the Phillies win the Fall Classic but also to personally have an exceptional postseason. If he does well in multiple appearances, he has the potential to earn a more lucrative deal in free agency.

Alec Bohm, 3B

Alec Bohm enters the Phillies' NLDS matchup as one of their best hitters. He had a nine-game hitting streak to end the regular season with multiple hits in six contests. However, he has not had too much offensive success in the last three postseasons. He famously went 1-for-13 in last year's NLDS.

Bohm has one more year of arbitration remaining before he becomes a free agent. His name surfaced in trade rumors last winter following his awful playoff performance. If the third baseman doesn't hit in October, the Phillies may decide to part ways with him.

Otto Kemp, UTL

Otto Kemp improved during his second call-up with the Phillies this year. He has a good chance of earning a bench spot on the Phillies NLDS roster, following the news that Johan Rojas will be unavailable due to a quad injury.

Kemp's defensive versatility may work in his favor during the Divisional Series. The 26-year-old is auditioning for an opportunity to remain in the majors next year. Making the most of any chances during the playoffs will work to his benefit.

Harrison Bader, OF

Harrison Bader stepped up considerably in the leadoff spot for the Phillies during September in place of an injured Trea Turner. The outfielder has a $10 million mutual option in his contract for 2026. A good performance throughout October could entice the Phillies to keep him beyond the playoffs.

It took a few weeks after being acquired at the trade deadline for Bader to break out as one of their best hitters over a span of a few weeks. If he performs offensively during the postseason, he'll make the Phillies' lineup much more formidable.

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