Phillies’ Sign Free-Agent OF Max Kelper to One-Year Deal

The Philadelphia Phillies agreed to a $10 million, one-year contract to add former Minnesota Twins outfielder Max Kepler.

The deal was first reported by Todd Zolecki and Mark Feinsand of MLB.com.

Kepler, who turns 32 on Feb 10, hit. .253 with eight home runs and 42 RBI in 2024 for Minnesota. He had signed a five-year, $35 million before the 2019 season, and played with the Twins from 2015-2024, hitting .237 with 161 home runs in 1,072 games for Minnesota.

It's an odd fit for Philadelphia, as Kepler is a left-handed hitter, who has played mostly rightfield. He has also played center field and has played three games at first base. He joins an outfield that consists of Nick Castellanos, Brandon Marsh and Johan Rojas.

The veteran missed 59 total games in 2024 and ended his season on Sept 6 with knee tendinitis.

His best season came in 2019, hitting .252 with 36 home runs and 90 RBI.  He did hit .260 with 24 home runs and 66 RBI in 2023 with the Twins.