Breaking News: Phillies Poised to Sign Three-Time All-Star, Eyes on Division Title
As the 2025 MLB season gets underway, baseball enthusiasts are already speculating about what could transpire in the offseason following this campaign. In a recent article, Jim Bowden of The Athletic made 25 bold predictions for the upcoming season, and among them, three specifically focused on the Philadelphia Phillies, painting an exciting picture for the team’s future.
One of the standout predictions is that the Phillies will call up top prospect Andrew Painter to join their roster. Painter, a highly regarded pitching prospect, has posted an impressive minor league record of 8-2 with a 1.58 ERA and 185 strikeouts. While he has yet to make his MLB debut, Bowden expects Painter to not only make the team but also secure a spot in the starting rotation for the first round of the playoffs. This prediction suggests that the young pitcher will have an immediate and significant impact, helping to elevate the team’s performance.
Another prediction Bowden makes is that the Phillies will repeat as National League East champions. After winning the division for the first time since 2011, the team is in a strong position to defend their title. With a majority of last season’s successful roster returning intact, the Phillies are well-equipped to face the competition and repeat their division-winning feat in 2025.
However, the boldest and most attention-grabbing prediction involves the Phillies potentially signing outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Chicago Cubs after an outstanding season. Bowden projects that Tucker, a three-time MLB All-Star, will sign a massive 14-year, $604 million contract with the Phillies, making him the team’s right fielder for the next decade. This move would likely lead to Nick Castellanos shifting to left field or possibly taking on a designated hitter role. Tucker’s track record of consistent production with the Houston Astros—including a .289 batting average, 23 home runs, and 49 RBIs last season—has established him as a key player. Bowden predicts that Tucker will continue his stellar performance, making him a crucial acquisition for the Phillies as they aim for a World Series title.
Tucker’s addition would provide the Phillies with another power hitter who excels in both offense and defense, complementing players like Bryce Harper and J.T. Realmuto. His ability to get on base, drive in runs, and play solid defense would be invaluable. Furthermore, Tucker’s experience, having already won a World Series with the Astros, would bring a veteran presence to a team on the rise. The Astros, however, are on a downward trajectory, and leaving a declining team for a championship contender like the Phillies could be an attractive option for Tucker. His potential move would also be a financial windfall, securing the long-term deal he desires.
These predictions set high expectations for the Phillies. If Painter lives up to the hype, the team clinches another division title, and Tucker joins the roster, the 2025 season could be one to remember for Philadelphia baseball fans.