PHILADELPHIA — Max Kepler and the Philadelphia Phillies have finalized a $10 million, one-year contract, with the expectation that he will be the team’s starting left fielder. Kepler, a veteran outfielder, spent his entire 10-year career with the Minnesota Twins, where he established himself as a consistent power hitter.
Over his career, Kepler has played 1,072 games, with a .237 batting average, 161 home runs, and 508 RBIs. Despite an injury-riddled 2024 season, which saw him post only eight homers and 42 RBIs, the Phillies are confident that Kepler can contribute significantly in the outfield. Phillies president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, stated that the team believes Kepler has the potential to play every day in left field.
Kepler’s 2024 season was disrupted by injury, including core surgery to repair a sports hernia and left patellar tendinitis, which limited him to just 105 games. Dombrowski emphasized that while Kepler did not make excuses, the injuries undeniably affected his performance.
At Citizens Bank Park, Kepler has shown flashes of brilliance, hitting four home runs and posting a .955 slugging percentage over just six career games there. The Phillies are hopeful that the spacious left field at the ballpark will suit Kepler’s playing style, and Dombrowski noted that Kepler is eager to make the transition.
The Phillies’ outfield will now include Kepler in left field, with Nick Castellanos returning to right field and Brandon Marsh and Johan Rojas sharing duties in center. Dombrowski explained that maintaining Castellanos in right field is the best option, allowing Kepler to settle into his new role comfortably.
This signing marks the Phillies’ most significant move this offseason, with the team having also added closer Jordan Romano on a one-year, $8.5 million contract. Romano, an All-Star in 2022 and 2023, comes from the Toronto Blue Jays with 105 career saves and a 2.90 ERA.
With one of the highest payrolls in MLB, the Phillies are unlikely to pursue any major offensive signings going into the 2025 season. Dombrowski indicated that while there may be some room for a flexible fifth starter, the team’s main moves are likely complete.
For more updates on the Philadelphia Phillies and their offseason moves, visit MLB.com.
