The Philadelphia Phillies have made a notable addition to their outfield mix, agreeing to terms with free-agent Max Kepler on a one-year, $10 million contract. The deal, first reported by MLB.com and confirmed by ESPN, is pending a physical.
Bolstering the Offense
Kepler, a 31-year-old who spent the first 10 seasons of his MLB career with the Minnesota Twins, brings a blend of offensive potential and solid defense to a Phillies team looking to retool after a disappointing exit in the NLDS. Over his decade in the majors, Kepler has hit .237 with a .747 OPS, 161 home runs, and 508 RBIs.
Philadelphia’s outfield production ranked in the bottom third of MLB this past season, a key factor in their pursuit of an established veteran like Kepler. The left-handed hitter is expected to see most of his time in left field, allowing the Phils to shift Brandon Marsh to center while Nick Castellanos mans right.
Rebounding from Injuries
Kepler is looking to bounce back after an injury-plagued 2024 campaign in which he hit .253/.302/.380 over 105 games while dealing with ailments in both knees. When healthy, he has flashed the ability to be an impact bat, most notably during an All-Star caliber 2019 season:
In 2019, Kepler hit .252 /.336 /.519 with 36 home runs and 90 RBIs, all career-bests. He’ll aim to regain that form in a new setting in Philadelphia.
Reloading for Another NL East Title Run
The Phillies are banking on a mix of rebounding players and their returning core to defend their NL East crown, which they captured by six games in 2024. With a lineup still anchored by Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto and others, the club is hopeful that additions like Kepler and recently signed closer Jordan Romano can put them over the top.
However, the division projects to be hotly contested again in 2025. The Mets will welcome back a healthy Juan Soto and the Braves are expected to have Ronald Acuna Jr. and Spencer Strider at full strength from the start. The Phillies will need comeback seasons from several players to stave off their rivals.
The Bottom Line
In adding Max Kepler, the Phillies are making a reasonable upside play to improve an offense that underwhelmed last year. If the former Twin can stay healthy and rediscover his peak form, he could end up being one of the savvier one-year signings of the offseason. Ultimately, Philadelphia is hoping this move, even if not a blockbuster, helps put them in position to make a deeper playoff run in 2025.
