The first step for a successful offseason in Philadelphia was signing Kyle Schwarber. That deal was agreed to during the winter meetings and wrapped up shortly thereafter.

Now, the next step is to hopefully re-sign JT Realmuto, but the sides are reportedly in a stalemate.

“The Phillies and Realmuto are locked in a standoff, league sources said,” Matt Gelb wrote Friday for The Athletic. “The club has discussed various multiyear offers with Realmuto, who continues to explore the market. A reunion makes sense for both sides. That, still, is the expectation. But, as Realmuto seeks a better offer, the Phillies have pursued trade alternatives. Realmuto’s return is not guaranteed.”

One alternative the Phillies could pursue is Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers.

Jeffers slashed .266/.356/.397 last season for the Twins nine home runs and 47 RBI. He didn’t hit as many home runs as Realmuto did in 2025 (12), but Jeffers had an OPS that was 50 points higher. Jeffers also produced a 108 OPS+ while Realmuto’s sat at 91.

However, the Phillies catcher has most of his value come defensively as he is one of the best at calling the game and helping his pitchers succeed. It doesn’t mean Jeffers couldn’t develop those same skills, but he isn’t at Realmuto’s level yet in terms of fielding.

Jeffers is entering the final year of arbitration with the Twins, meaning he will be a free agent at the end of next season. Spotrac predicts he will make $6.5 million this season in Minnesota.

The Phillies may not have to cough up as much to get him since he only has one year of team control left, but he is represented by Scott Boras, who typically prefers to have his clients become free agents. Dave Dombrowski would have to present a very strong offer in order to keep Jeffers off of the market.

With Realmuto keeping his options open, the Phillies certainly should as well. Even though he is their top choice still, Dombrowski shouldn’t be afraid to pull the trigger and land Jeffers is he believes the stalemate will never be broken.

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