The Philadelphia Phillies face an offseason crossroads: can they re-sign J.T. Realmuto and unload Nick Castellanos to spark a deeper playoff push? Connor Thomas breaks down the Phillies’ Christmas wish list, ranking the team’s top needs—resigning Realmuto, trading Castellanos, and finding a right-handed power bat to balance a lefty-heavy lineup. Thomas analyzes recent minor bullpen moves, projects roles for Jhoan Duran, José Alvarado, Brad Keller, and Orion Kerkering, and questions whether the current bullpen depth is enough for another run.
With mounting fan anxiety about the starting rotation, Thomas calms nerves by highlighting the strength of a group led by Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Cristopher Sánchez, and promising prospect Andrew Painter. Will Jesus Luzardo and a healthy Wheeler keep the Phillies in the NL elite? Get insights on key offseason priorities, projected lineups, and why the pitching staff might be better than fans think.
0:00 – Phillies Christmas Wishlist
Connor Thomas
introduces a special holiday episode and breaks down the Phillies’ top three "wishlist" priorities for the offseason, including re-signing J.T. Realmuto, trading Nick Castellanos, and finding a right-handed power bat.
11:07 – Bullpen Roles & Analysis
Connor Thomas
examines recent bullpen moves, assigns roles to current relievers, and predicts the structure of the Phillies bullpen heading into the season.
23:37 – Rotation Concerns & Painter Outlook
Connor Thomas
addresses fan worries about the starting rotation, provides perspective on its league standing, and discusses expectations for Andrew Painter’s rookie year.
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