The Philadelphia Phillies are heading into one of the most critical offseasons in recent memory following the conclusion of the 2025 campaign. After a strong 96-win season that earned them the National League East title, the Phillies enter the winter with both optimism and uncertainty. While they remain one of baseball’s most talented rosters, several key questions loom large over the next few months from free agency decisions to possible trades involving some of the franchise’s biggest names.
At the center of the offseason drama is Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski, who stirred the pot with recent comments that appeared to criticize superstar Bryce Harper. Dombrowski’s remarks didn’t sit well with the two-time MVP, who responded by saying he was “uncomfortable” with what was said. Though Dombrowski later told reporters at the annual GM meetings that he and Harper “had a nice conversation,” the incident raised eyebrows around the league and fueled speculation about potential tension between the front office and the club’s cornerstone player.
Whether this disagreement turns into something bigger remains to be seen, but the Phillies’ relationship with Harper will undoubtedly be one of the offseason’s most closely watched storylines. While it’s unlikely the team would seriously consider moving a player of Harper’s stature and influence, trade rumors aren’t entirely off the table, especially if internal discord continues.
Yet Harper isn’t the only major name that could find himself on the move. MLB Network insider Jon Morosi recently reported that the Phillies might be open to trade discussions involving All-Star third baseman Alec Bohm. The 29-year-old has been a consistent contributor since breaking into the majors in 2020, but his long-term fit with the team may be in question as Dombrowski looks to reshape parts of the roster.
During a November 12 segment on MLB Network, Morosi shared that Philadelphia’s immediate priority is to handle its current crop of free agents, a list led by stars Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto. However, once those situations are resolved, the Phillies could turn their attention to Bohm’s future.
“One trade they could make is Alec Bohm at third base,” Morosi said. “He’s someone who has shown you All-Star level production, but the consistency has not always been there. And I asked Dave Dombrowski yesterday about how much interest there has been in Alec Bohm and the potential of a move there.”
When asked directly about Bohm, Dombrowski carefully sidestepped the question. He declined to comment on “any individual players,” though he did take a moment to praise Bohm’s character and contributions, calling him “a quality player” and an important part of the team. His avoidance, however, didn’t go unnoticed. In MLB circles, a non-answer often says more than a direct statement.
If Philadelphia does move on from Bohm, they’ll have a significant void to fill. Despite battling injuries that sidelined him for over 40 games in 2025, Bohm still managed to rank fourth on the team in hits and sixth in RBIs. His combination of solid contact hitting and improving defense at the hot corner has made him a fan favorite, even if his power numbers have fluctuated from season to season.
That said, the Phillies are reportedly already eyeing a potential replacement. According to Morosi, free agent third baseman Alex Bregman could be a prime target. Bregman, who recently opted out of his deal with the Boston Red Sox, has drawn widespread interest across the league. The Phillies, however, are viewed by many as a top destination for the two-time All-Star, whose mix of leadership, postseason experience, and offensive consistency would fit seamlessly into Philadelphia’s competitive core.
“If the Phillies were to move Bohm, in my judgment, it would have to be because they think there’s a chance of getting a Bregman,” Morosi added. “Or they’re one of the teams that could potentially look at Bo Bichette at a spot that’s not shortstop. You would have to have a clear upgrade on Bohm if you’re gonna go ahead and make that trade.”
Bregman’s availability adds intrigue to an already complex offseason landscape. His decision will not only shape the Phillies’ next steps but could also spark a chain reaction across the league. ESPN’s Jeff Passan has echoed similar sentiments, stating that Bregman’s skill set — both on and off the field — makes him a perfect fit for Philadelphia’s clubhouse culture and championship aspirations.
For the Phillies, a move for Bregman would signal an aggressive win-now mindset. The team already boasts a potent lineup with Harper, Schwarber, Trea Turner, and Realmuto, and Bregman’s addition would give them another middle-of-the-order bat with a proven postseason pedigree. It would also strengthen the team defensively at third base, an area where Bohm, despite steady improvement, has often been the subject of criticism.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox would face a major void if Bregman departs. Boston, per reports, has been eyeing a potential trade for St. Louis Cardinals star Nolan Arenado should Bregman sign elsewhere. Arenado, who still has several years left on his contract, could be a costly acquisition, but the Red Sox have made it clear they intend to remain competitive and won’t hesitate to pursue high-end talent.
The Phillies’ interest in Bregman and their openness to listening on Bohm underscores a broader theme: Philadelphia’s window to win is right now. With a veteran roster, a strong rotation led by Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola, and one of the deepest bullpens in the National League, the Phillies are built to contend for a championship in the short term. Dombrowski, known for his boldness and willingness to make splashy moves, seems determined to ensure the club remains among baseball’s elite.
Still, there are challenges ahead. The front office must balance aggressive upgrades with maintaining team chemistry — something that could be tested further if the Harper situation lingers. Public friction between a superstar and an executive can be destabilizing, particularly for a club expected to compete for the World Series. For his part, Harper has repeatedly emphasized his commitment to winning in Philadelphia, and Dombrowski’s efforts to mend fences will be vital in keeping the focus on baseball, not controversy.
Additionally, Philadelphia’s financial flexibility will be tested. With several large contracts already on the books, including Harper, Turner, and Nola, adding another star-caliber player like Bregman would likely push the payroll deeper into luxury tax territory. Ownership has previously shown a willingness to spend, but the magnitude of that commitment could determine how far the Phillies go this winter.
Beyond the headline names, the Phillies also have secondary needs to address. Bullpen depth remains a focus, even with the return of José Alvarado. The club could also look to add a right-handed outfield bat to balance the lineup, particularly if they lose Schwarber in free agency.
While most of the attention has centered on Bohm and Harper, it’s worth remembering that baseball’s offseason is unpredictable. A single major signing or trade can shift an entire team’s strategy overnight. For now, the Phillies’ path appears tied closely to what happens with Bregman and, to a lesser extent, how Dombrowski navigates his relationship with Harper.
Should Philadelphia land Bregman, it would send a clear message to the rest of the National League: the Phillies aren’t just content to compete, they intend to dominate. However, if talks stall or if Harper’s situation worsens, this offseason could quickly turn from one of promise to one of upheaval.
As the dust settles from a season that fell just short of the ultimate goal, one thing is certain, the Phillies won’t stand still. Dombrowski’s track record speaks for itself: wherever he’s gone, from Detroit to Boston to Philadelphia, he’s been unafraid to make the bold moves necessary to chase a championship. Whether that means parting ways with a longtime contributor like Alec Bohm or smoothing things over with Bryce Harper, expect the Phillies to make headlines in the months ahead.
In the end, the 2025-26 offseason could define the next phase of Phillies baseball. With questions swirling around key players, a star-studded free agent market, and a president of baseball operations known for his decisiveness, Philadelphia’s decisions in the coming weeks could shape the franchise’s championship outlook for years to come. If Dombrowski can balance ambition with stability, the Phillies may well find themselves back in the thick of October baseball, perhaps with a lineup even stronger than before.
