BREAKING NEWS: Phillies Shockingly Agree to Deal With Younger Brother of Rival Superstar
The Philadelphia Phillies have turned their attention to strengthening their organization beyond the MLB free agency frenzy, aiming to bolster their prospect pipeline. Despite securing key players like Zack Wheeler with lucrative contract extensions, the Phillies are keen on cultivating top-tier talent.
In a surprising move, the Phillies have reached a preliminary agreement with Kenny Acuna, the younger brother of Atlanta Braves’ superstar Ronald Acuna Jr. However, due to Kenny’s age of just 12, Philadelphia cannot officially sign him until 2028, as noted by Hector Gomez.
Philadelphia Phillies 'Verbally Agree' to Sign Kenny Acuña, Brother of Ronald Acuña Jr. https://t.co/A5glmH0WNj
— Baseball is Everything (@PiratesAreBad) March 2, 2024
International players aged 16 and above are eligible to sign with teams as part of the international free agency class, leaving a four-year gap until an official agreement can be reached. While a verbal agreement is in place, the lengthy wait provides other teams with an opportunity to vie for Kenny’s signature.
Nonetheless, if all goes as planned, the NL East could see three Acuna brothers competing in the future, with the New York Mets already acquiring Luisangel Acuna in a trade deadline deal involving Max Scherzer.
Cheers to one heck of a career. 💚
Thank you for everything you've done for Philly, @JasonKelce. Best of luck in retirement! pic.twitter.com/1hRhefvz1d
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) March 4, 2024
For the Phillies, this move represents a low-risk endeavor with the potential for significant future dividends. If Kenny follows in the footsteps of his older siblings and develops into a top prospect, Philadelphia could secure a franchise cornerstone at an early age. While his career trajectory remains uncertain, the Phillies are hopeful to welcome their own Acuna brother into the fold come 2028.