Harrison Bader Declines Phillies Option, Becomes Free Agent After Strong Run

Harrison Bader's brief tenure with the Philadelphia Phillies is officially over, at least for now.

Bader’s Decision to Decline His Mutual Option

The MLB Players Association announced Tuesday that Bader’s declined his $10 million mutual option for the 2026 season, meaning the 31-year-old centerfielder is now a free agent and can sign with any team starting Thursday.

Phillies’ Trade and His Impact in 2025

The Phillies landed Bader in a trade with the Minnesota Twins in exchange for two minor leaguers, Hendry Mendez and Geremy Villoria, before the MLB trade deadline, where he helped solidify a struggling outfield. In 50 games with Philadelphia, Bader excelled, slashing .305/.361/.463 with five homers and 16 RBI.

Injury Impact During the NLDS

However, Bader ended up getting hurt in Game 1 of the NLDS against the Dodgers, which forced him to miss parts of the final three games, appearing only as a pinch hitter throughout the rest of the playoffs.

Overall, between Minnesota and Philadelphia, Bader slashed .277/.347/.449 with 17 homers and 11 steals across 146 games.

What’s Next for Philadelphia’s Outfield?

If the team can't bring Bader back, they will have to find someone to replace him in center, where he was an excellent defender. One option is 21-year-old top prospect Justin Crawford, who is said to be better suited to play left field, but had a tremendous offensive season at Triple-A Lehigh Valley, slashing .334/.411/.452, stealing 46 bases in 112 games this season.

Possibility of a Phillies Reunion

Keep an eye on what happens with Bader, who could return to center field, with in left and Brandon Marsh moving to right field in a platoon role with a right-handed hitting outfielder.