The Philadelphia Phillies have officially signed outfielder Max Kepler to a one-year, $10 million contract, aiming to bolster their lineup after a disappointing National League Division Series exit. Kepler, 31, spent his entire 10-year MLB career with the Minnesota Twins before this move. citeturn0search1
In the 2024 season, Kepler faced challenges due to left patellar tendinitis and a hip issue, limiting him to 105 games with a .253 batting average, eight home runs, and 42 RBIs. Despite these setbacks, Phillies’ president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, expressed confidence in Kepler’s ability to contribute daily, stating, “Our plans are to have him play every day; we think he can.” citeturn0search0
To address his injuries, Kepler underwent core surgery in the offseason to repair a sports hernia that affected his performance last year. Historically, he has been a strong defender in right field, leading MLB right fielders with 57 outs above average from 2016 to 2024. The Phillies plan to position him in left field, keeping Nick Castellanos in right and utilizing Brandon Marsh and Johan Rojas in center. citeturn0search0
This signing aligns with the Phillies’ strategy to enhance their outfield depth and offensive consistency. Kepler’s disciplined approach at the plate, evidenced by his 25.3% career chase rate, is expected to complement the team’s existing lineup. citeturn0search2
With Kepler’s addition, the Phillies’ projected payroll approaches $296 million, nearing the highest luxury-tax threshold of $301 million. Dombrowski indicated that further significant free-agent signings are unlikely, stating, “I’d be surprised if we got into impactful-type of free-agent signings from an offensive perspective.” citeturn0search0
As the Phillies prepare for the upcoming season, Kepler’s health and performance will be pivotal in their quest to advance beyond the NLDS and contend for a championship.
navlistPhillies Strengthen Roster with Key Offseason Movesturn0news15,turn0news16,turn0news17
About The Author
