PHILADELPHIA, PA – AUGUST 30: J.T. Realmuto #10 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park on August 30, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
J.T. Realmuto can cross the Mets off his list of potential suitors this offseason.
J.T. Realmuto is one of the top MLB free agents this offseason and thus was linked to the New York Mets due to the franchise’s new strategy of spending big to win.
The link was officially broken Wednesday when news broke the team was close to a deal with catcher James McCann. So where is Realmuto going to sign now?
Realmuto considering his options
The easiest option would be for the catcher to return to the Philadelphia Phillies. The only problem is the team seems to be in the midst of an attempt to slash payroll. Zack Wheeler is reportedly on the trading block and a deal worth over $100 million for Realmuto doesn’t seem likely. It sure would be fun to hear Bryce Harper’s opinion on this matter.
One surprise team that could still be in the sweepstakes is the Toronto Blue Jays. They have a nice young core in place and have already been linked to George Springer this offseason. So the intention to spend is there. The next step would be to convince someone like Realmuto that a winning formula is in place up north in Canada.
The Los Angeles Angels should also be in any conversation to sign a top free agent. That franchise needs to win with Mike Trout in his prime and they have the luxury of not having a real budget. Albert Pujols is off the books following this season and that right there opens up the money to pay Realmuto.
The Washington Nationals have shown up in Realmuto rumors as well this offseason. Him signing there may really drive Harper insane.
The catcher should have several suitors ready to spend big even after the Mets left the conversation. A team like the Blue Jays can jump into contention right away with such a move and the Angels could look to finally win by acquiring a top catcher who can also help the pitching staff succeed.
Or maybe the Phillies come to their senses and put off a total rebuild at a time when they haven’t made the postseason since 2011. That would be a good move for both sides and it can be feasible if Wheeler’s money is moved.