Further Improve Their Roster: Phillies to move on from Alec Bohm in favor of $40 million All-Star

The Philadelphia Phillies have established themselves as one of baseball’s elite teams, thanks in large part to major investments in stars like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, Aaron Nola, Zack Wheeler, and Kyle Schwarber.

Looking ahead, the Phillies could look to free agency this winter to strengthen their roster, whether in the infield or outfield. One particularly intriguing idea is pursuing a replacement for Alec Bohm.

Sports Illustrated’s Zach Pressnell pointed to one possible free-agent target who could fill that role. While the price tag would be steep—likely exceeding \$40 million annually—it’s a move that could be exciting for the Phillies to explore.

The Phillies are urged to replace Alec Bohm with a $40 million All-Star third baseman

Pressnell has linked Boston Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman to the Phillies as a possible offseason target. Bregman is expected to opt out of his three-year, $120 million contract in search of a longer, more lucrative deal.

“Alec Bohm is often a question mark in the lineup,” Pressnell notes, suggesting that opens the door for Bregman to fit in Philadelphia.

While pursuing Bregman could complicate the Phillies’ chances of retaining Kyle Schwarber or J.T. Realmuto, he could serve as a strong alternative if either leaves before Bregman makes his choice.

Now 31 and in his 10th MLB season, Bregman has put up solid numbers in 2025 despite missing time mid-year: 111 hits, 27 doubles, 17 home runs, 59 RBIs, a .273 batting average, and an .821 OPS. He’s also a steady defender at third base and brings championship experience, having won two World Series with Houston—including one over the Phillies in 2022, when he hit .294 with a .948 OPS in the postseason.

The case for Philadelphia is clear: Bregman would represent a notable upgrade over Bohm. This year, Bohm is batting .272 with a .703 OPS, offers little power, and doesn’t walk much. His defense has improved but remains below average, and he’s under team control only through 2026. The Phillies already explored trading him last winter, so moving on after next season wouldn’t be surprising.

If the team keeps Bohm, one possibility could be sliding him to first base in 2026, with Bregman at third and Bryce Harper shifting back to right field. Though unlikely, it’s not completely out of the question.

Ultimately, adding Bregman would strengthen the Phillies’ infield and soften the blow of eventually parting with Bohm. Still, given the importance of re-signing Schwarber, Bregman may not be the club’s top target this winter.