The Phillies have inked one-year agreements with seven of their eight arbitration-eligible players for the upcoming season, leaving third baseman Alec Bohm as the lone exception.
Bohm, rather than reaching a settlement with the team before the Thursday deadline, has exchanged salary figures with them. Before delving into what this means for Bohm and the Phillies, let’s first address the status of the rest of Philadelphia’s arbitration-eligible players.
The organization successfully reached agreements with starting pitcher Ranger Suárez, versatile infielder Edmundo Sosa, and key bullpen components Gregory Soto and Jeff Hoffman. Additionally, outfielder Jake Cave, right-hander Dylan Covey, and catcher Garrett Stubbs had previously settled earlier in the offseason, averting arbitration.
As for Bohm, let’s delve into the specifics of his arbitration situation:
What is Bohm’s arbitration situation?
Entering his first of three possible years of arbitration, Bohm, who earned $748,000 last season, has submitted a request for $4 million for the upcoming season. In response, the Phillies have countered with a figure of $3.4 million.
Does this mean they will definitely go to a hearing?
Not necessarily. Although the team exchanged figures with José Alvarado and Seranthony Domínguez last offseason, neither player ultimately underwent a hearing. Instead, the Phillies secured new deals with both players last February, including multiyear extensions to sidestep arbitration. A similar scenario could unfold with Bohm, with the potential for a one-year agreement to be reached before Spring Training or, failing that, arbitration proceedings where a panel would decide between the two figures presented.
What does this mean long term?
Merely exchanging figures is unlikely to have a lasting impact. There remains ample opportunity for the sides to reach an agreement before a potential hearing. Even if arbitration becomes necessary, numerous players have proceeded to have successful careers with their respective teams afterward. Notably, in Philadelphia, Ryan Howard endured arbitration hearings in 2008 and 2009 before securing a multiyear contract, demonstrating the flexibility of such negotiations.
In essence, while uncertainties linger, clarity regarding Bohm’s contract situation for the upcoming season and beyond is anticipated in the coming weeks.