Philadelphia Phillies’ Nick Castellanos, left, celebrates with Brandon Marsh, right, and other teammates (Image via AP Photo/Chris Szagola) The Philadelphia Phillies are preparing for the possibility that J.T. Realmuto will not return for 2026. Contract talks have not moved, and pitchers and catchers are close to reporting. With no clear answer yet, the team is looking at alternatives.One name that keeps coming up is Ryan Jeffers of the Minnesota Twins. The Phillies see him as a realistic option if Realmuto leaves in free agency. His age, contract status, and recent production make him a practical target rather than a splash move.
Philadelphia Phillies planning ahead at catcher
JT Realmuto is 35 and coming off a quieter season at the plate. Even so, his track record means other teams are interested, and his next contract is expected to be expensive. That has pushed the Philadelphia Phillies to explore the trade market rather than wait and react late. 
Ryan Jeffers of Minnesota Twins (Image via Getty)
Jeffers fits what the Phillies are looking for. He is younger, costs far less, and is under team control for 2026 through arbitration. At $6.7 million, he would give the team stability behind the plate without locking them into a long-term deal.
Why Ryan Jeffers stands out
Ryan Jeffers brings power that plays well at catcher and steady defense. In 2025, he produced a strong OPS and handled his defensive duties cleanly. While he does not match Realmuto’s arm or speed, he offers reliable all-around play and is entering his prime years.For the Phillies, he would be a bridge option. They stay competitive now while keeping future flexibility.
What a trade could look like
A possible deal would send outfielder Justin Crawford and pitcher Gage Wood to Minnesota. Crawford is one of the Philadelphia Phillies’ top prospects, and Wood adds pitching depth. The Twins are looking to restock with young talent after recent roster changes, and this type of return fits that goal.The deal would not require Philadelphia to move a big-league contract, keeping the payroll clean.
2025 performance snapshot
PlayerAgeGAVGHRRBIOPSSalary (2026)Fielding %CS% (Career) Ryan Jeffers 28 96 .276 14 43 .858 $6.7M .993 ~30% J.T. Realmuto 35 ~110 .257 12 52 .700 Free agent Elite MLB bestAlso read: MLB trade rumors: Chicago Cubs predicted to pursue $33 million Toronto Blue Jays star infielder post blockbuster Edward Cabrera deal
My Two Cents On This Mock Trade
Philadelphia would get a younger, cheaper catcher who can start right away. Minnesota would turn a player nearing free agency into long-term pieces. If Realmuto moves on, Jeffers is a sensible next step rather than a risky gamble.