Sad News: Just In New York Yankees Fans Favorite Superstar Sign A Hefty Deal With The Philadelphia Phillies
Former New York Yankees outfielder Alex Verdugo is reportedly on track to depart from the Bronx and ink a significant contract with the Philadelphia Phillies. After spending just one season with the Yankees, Verdugo is expected to move on, with Philadelphia emerging as a likely landing spot.
Verdugo’s Tenure with the Yankees
Verdugo was acquired by the Yankees from the Boston Red Sox before the start of the 2024 Major League Baseball season. He was New York’s primary left fielder throughout the year, contributing both offensively and defensively. However, the Yankees’ recent trade for Cody Bellinger has significantly diminished the chances of Verdugo returning to the team. With Bellinger filling a key role in the outfield, Verdugo’s path back to New York became increasingly unlikely as he entered free agency.
Philadelphia’s Interest in Verdugo
Drew VonScio of Newsweek has reported that the Philadelphia Phillies are a strong candidate to sign Verdugo, identifying their outfield as an area in need of reinforcement.
“The Philadelphia Phillies know their outfield could certainly use some upgrades,” VonScio wrote. “Nick Castellanos has right field secured for the Phillies, but left field and center field remain major uncertainties. Max Kepler, Brandon Marsh, and Johan Rojas are competing for the remaining two spots. Marsh is better suited for a fourth outfielder role, while both Kepler and Rojas struggled in 2024. As a result, the Phillies could pursue this former Yankees outfielder to solidify their roster.”
VonScio further speculated that Philadelphia could offer Verdugo a four-year contract to lure him to the team. According to his projections, Verdugo is expected to command a deal worth approximately $60.8 million over four years, averaging $15.2 million per season. If this materializes, the Phillies would secure an experienced outfielder just as he approaches his 29th birthday in May. This signing would bolster Philadelphia’s lineup as they aim to remain competitive in the National League East.
Verdugo’s Performance and Potential Fit in Philadelphia
In 2024, Verdugo posted a .233 batting average, hitting 13 home runs and driving in 61 RBIs. While those numbers were respectable, his overall performance in the Bronx did not meet expectations, prompting him to seek a fresh start elsewhere. Analysts believe that playing in Philadelphia could revitalize Verdugo’s offensive production while also allowing him to contribute defensively.
VonScio emphasized how the Phillies’ home stadium, Citizens Bank Park, could be a more favorable environment for Verdugo’s hitting.
“Alex Verdugo hit .233 with 13 home runs and 61 RBI for the Yankees in 2024,” VonScio stated. “He is primarily a left fielder and would instantly be an upgrade over Kepler. His season in the Bronx didn’t go as planned, so he is looking to bounce back and return to his 2023 form (.264/.324/.461).”
One key factor that could benefit Verdugo in Philadelphia is the dimensions of Citizens Bank Park. The right field wall is 330 feet away from home plate, with the right-center power alley at 369 feet. Comparatively, Yankee Stadium’s short porch in right field may have played to Verdugo’s advantage, but the Phillies’ ballpark features a slightly shorter power alley, which could boost his home run numbers.
Defensively, Verdugo proved to be one of the top left fielders in baseball during the 2024 season. According to Baseball Savant metrics, he ranked in the 96th percentile for arm value and 94th percentile for arm strength, showcasing his defensive prowess. If the Phillies secure him, Verdugo would likely take over as their starting left fielder.
Yankees’ Outfield Plans for 2025
With Verdugo seemingly on his way out and Juan Soto already departing for the New York Mets, the Yankees will feature a revamped outfield in 2025. Aaron Judge remains the only returning outfielder from last season, but the addition of Bellinger is expected to fill a significant void.
In addition, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has indicated that young prospect Jasson Dominguez will be given an opportunity to establish himself in the outfield. Dominguez, a highly touted talent within the Yankees’ system, made a brief but impressive debut in 2023 before missing much of 2024 due to injury. His return, coupled with Bellinger’s presence, suggests that the Yankees are pivoting towards a younger and more dynamic outfield setup.
Final Thoughts
While nothing has been finalized, all signs point toward Alex Verdugo leaving the Yankees and potentially joining the Phillies on a lucrative contract. Philadelphia, in need of a consistent outfield presence, could offer Verdugo a four-year deal worth approximately $60.8 million, making him a crucial part of their push for postseason success.
If the deal materializes, Verdugo would bring a combination of offensive potential and defensive reliability to the Phillies, while the Yankees look to reconfigure their roster with fresh talent. With both teams making strategic moves, the upcoming MLB season promises to be an exciting one for fans across the league.