The Philadelphia Phillies’ offseason has been kind of quiet. No big splash signings, no wild trades, just some steady moves to fine-tune the roster. President of Baseball Operations David Dombrowski worked his magic, ticking off his to-do list with precision. The bullpen got a late-inning boost with the addition of Jordan Romano, while Max Kepler was brought in to patrol left field. 

Then, the rotation got a little more depth with Jesús Luzardo and Joe Ross. But here’s the kicker: This is the first time since 2016-17 that the Phillies haven’t inked a multiyear deal with a free agent. Wild, right? It’s like a calm before the storm, as Dombrowski has set the stage for a much more exciting offseason next year, with nearly $75 million coming off the payroll. 

The clock is ticking for the Philadelphia Phillies as they look toward the future 

By 2026, key players are going to be aging, with Kyle Schwarber turning 33, J.T. Realmuto reaching 35, and Zack Wheeler hitting 36. Aaron Nola, Trea Turner, and Bryce Harper will all be 33 as well. According to The Athletic, while the arrival of top prospects like right-hander Andrew Painter and shortstop Aidan Miller is a big boost, the Phillies might find themselves needing a prime-age free agent or two to stay competitive. 

The Phillies may make a major push in 2026. Why? Since the current collective bargaining agreement’s season is its last. In the worst-case scenario, a potential owners’ lockout could disrupt part or all of the 2027 season. Additionally, the Phillies will have even more financial freedom following the 2026 season, as Taijuan Walker and Nick Castellanos will have $38 million removed from the books.

The team taps into the Japanese baseball market with Koyo Aoyogi

Koyo Aoyagi was just announced to be a non-roster invitee to the Phillies’ spring training in Clearwater, Florida, on a Minor League contract. The 31-year-old has a sidearm delivery and extensive experience in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) division; the right-hander offers a special set of skills.

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Aoyagi has an outstanding record after nine seasons, with a 61-47 record, a 3.08 ERA, and six complete games, including three shutouts. Aoyagi also has three Hanshin Tigers All-Star selections (2019, 2021, and 2022). Although he has been a consistent starter throughout his career, the professional Japanese baseball pitcher is expected to compete for a spot in the bullpen, providing the Phillies with some leeway.

“We like him for his uniqueness,” Phillies assistant general manager Jorge Velandia noted, adding, “You don’t see many guys from the sidearm angle. He’s been a warrior in Japan. He’s been a starter and reliever. So many different things. Just come and show us what you’ve got. That’s his MO, too. He’s a warrior. He’s a guy who wants an opportunity to come here and pitch in the big leagues.” It’s an exciting opportunity for both sides, and it’s one that could pay huge dividends if Aoyagi delivers on his promise.