Borderline players
Edmundo Sosa and Garrett Stubbs are players to whom the Phillies may extend offers. Sosa can offer a few timely hits but can also go through prolonged periods of inconsistency. His defense was also more suspect than it had been in years past. The sure-handed infielder struggled at third base when Bohm was playing first base, committing 11 errors in 82 games at the position.
Stubbs is a guy that everyone loves. Fans love his antics in the dugout and the clubhouse and players love the personality he brings to the team. The issue is that the backup catcher's impressive 2022 season was not replicated in 2023. Stubbs is a career .220 hitter, but he hit well below that number this past season (.204).
The advantage that Stubbs has is that he backs up J.T. Realmuto, who plays more games than any other catcher in baseball, so he doesn't have to be as productive as other backup catchers. He also comes at a relatively low price, which could persuade the Phillies to bring him back. Much of the club's decision will likely stem from whether they believe Rafael Marchan is ready to back up in the big leagues.
Unlikely to be brought back
Dylan Covey and Jake Cave are unlikely to be brought back. Covey struggled when first acquired in May and June but found his rhythm in the summer months. While Covey pitched better than many would lead you to believe, his role is replaceable. He was mainly used in low-leverage situations such as spot starts and bullpen mop-up duty. The Phillies may be able to find someone on a minor league contract or someone from within the system to take over that role.
Cave is another player who could likely be replaced by a player on a minor league deal who could later be called up or by someone from within the organization. Cave's outfield versatility and the fact that he bats left-handed are the two factors he brings to the table. He had a few games in the spring in which he showed some promise but ultimately faltered and was not really a factor down the stretch.