Phillies To Reduce J.T. Realmuto’s Catching Workload

Philadelphia Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski announced at a year-end press conference that the team plans to reduce catcher J.T. Realmuto's workload behind the plate for the 2027 season. Dombrowski noted that Realmuto physically feels fine and is open to taking more days off catching, with potential appearances at first base to keep him fresh.

Realmuto, who turns 36 during Spring Training, struggled offensively in 2026 during the first season of his three-year, $45 million contract. Across 467 plate appearances, he posted career lows with a .205 batting average and a 68 wRC+, despite starting an MLB-leading 122 games at catcher. The Phillies' current internal backup options include Rafael Marchán and Garrett Stubbs.