The Philadelphia Phillies seem to be coming out of the trauma of losing Bo Bichette to the Mets. And according to the President of Ops, Dave Dombrowski, this offseason might not be exciting anymore for the Phillies.

In a recent interview, Dombrowski said, “I did think we were going to get a deal done…We were close….It was a gut punch. …But until you have a signed memo of understanding, you don’t have a deal.”

Philadelphia believed a Bo Bichette deal was finished after offering 7 years and $200 million. But that confidence collapsed when the Mets redirected the market entirely.

New York finalized a 3-year, $126 million contract with opt-outs built in.

Bichette earned that interest after batting .311 with 18 homers and 94 RBI in 2025. He played 139 games, all while missing the ALDS due to a knee injury, but then returned to become Toronto’s World Series hero. The Mets value his bat behind Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto in the lineup.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia’s disappointment led fans to expect urgency, especially as the New York Mets strengthened a division rivalry. Many believed they would counter by adding impact players to balance the competitive gap.

Instead, Dave Dombrowski publicly stated the offseason was over following the Realmuto signing announcement. He said the current roster reflects what the Phillies plan to field in 2026.

Manager Rob Thomson echoed similar emotions.

Those comments landed hard because lineup questions remain, especially surrounding cleanup production and protection. Last season showed inconsistency behind Bryce Harper, allowing pitchers to pitch around him often.

Philadelphia still projects as competitive, but the decision to pause spending carries measurable risk. Bichette joining the Mets ensures frequent reminders, with 13 annual games against Philadelphia scheduled. If internal improvements fail, the Phillies could see this restraint backfire in 2026.

While the Bichette fiasco is still hot, Kepler’s name lingers.

The Mets might steal another Phillies star before the Deadline

The New York Mets are considering Max Kepler after trading Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers, opening a left-field spot.

Kepler hit .216 with a .300 on-base percentage, 19 home runs, and 52 RBIs over 127 games in 2025. He also ranked fifth in outfield arm strength, showing defensive value beyond offensive numbers. The reported one-year, $7.6 million deal keeps the Mets under the luxury tax while addressing immediate roster needs.

Kepler’s profile fits the Mets’ plan as a short-term solution while prospect Carson Benge develops.

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In 2023 with Minnesota, Max Kepler produced a .260 average, 24 home runs, and 66 RBIs across 130 games. His defensive skill and left-handed power complement the current roster without blocking younger players’ progression.

A salary lower than Nimmo’s $162 million over eight years preserves funds to strengthen pitching or other areas.

Adding Max Kepler provides New York stability in the corner outfield and a strong throwing arm for crucial plays.

Projected for 2026, he could hit .240–.252 with about 18 home runs and 70 RBIs over 130-plus games. The move balances competitiveness with financial flexibility, avoiding long-term commitments while keeping the team prepared.

Fans see continuity and production without major risk, creating a clear path for future roster decisions.