Since the MLB Winter Meetings, where the Philadelphia Phillies sent shockwaves through the sport, they've acted more like a small market team. The Phillies entered the offseason with the main objective of re-signing slugger Kyle Schwarber, and fulfilled it with a massive new deal. Now the Phillies have to think beyond just retention of the 2025 team, and that starts with assessing free agency.
The Phillies have been looking to get into the Japanese market since their attempt at acquiring Cy Young contender Yoshinobu Yamamoto two seasons ago. They had another shot this offseason, but whiffed on all three available players, with infielder Kazuma Okamoto signing with the Toronto Blue Jays on a four-year, $60 million deal on Saturday. Although missing on another potential Japanese player is rough, it opens the door further for the Phillies to inquire about free agent shortstop Bo Bichette.
Blue Jays adding Kazuma Okamoto could mean Bo Bichette is there for the taking for the Phillies
Free agency is at a standstill besides the posting windows coming to a close for the Japanese players. Many of the big free agents are still waiting to be signed, and the Blue Jays spending another $60 million all but takes them out of bringing Bichette back. Phillies fans would love for their club to go big after minimal spending outside Schwarber. Bichette has come up in rumors as an upgrade for the Phillies infield, and there appears to be a possibility after a report from the New York Post's Jon Heyman.
The Phillies are among a number of big-market teams to have interest in Bo Bichette, an ultra young (27) free agent. Yanks, Cubs, Dodgers, Red Sox and incumbent Jays, too. Bichette is the only player to hit .300 vs. fastballs, breaking balls and also changeups/splits.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 3, 2026
Bichette is a 27-year-old shortstop that has played all seven of his seasons in Toronto. He may not be replacing Trea Turner, but he could move to second base, or even third if the Phillies are willing to change things up. Bichette himself reportedly made the offer to move to second base, so third base isn't out of the realm of possibility. He's a two-time All-Star and AL hits leader, with a career .294 batting average. Bichette showed out in 2025 with 78 runs, 181 hits, 18 home runs, and 94 RBIs. His .311 batting average also finished second-best in MLB. He finished the season putting on a show in the World Series after suffering from a knee sprain that sidelined him up to that point.
Bichette presents something unique for the Phillies if they're able to work him into the roster. He adds a dynamic ability on the field and a bat that adds excitement with a keen ability to hit for consistent average against most pitch types. He would be a sigh of relief for a Phillies' lineup that has been desperate for change. Phillies fans want a real reason to believe in the team again, and Bichette is a free agent worth investing in.
The Phillies have financial flexibility if need be. President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has been vocal about shuffling some things around, while also working in silence. They're already working close to the $300 million tax payroll of last season, but this could be the difference from pretender to contender for the Phillies.