The Philadelphia Phillies continue to search for outfield help as they navigate a challenging free-agent market filled with both elite stars and uncertain rebound candidates. With questions surrounding designated hitter Kyle Schwarber’s future and a need to strengthen the corner-outfield spots, the team may be forced to explore less-exciting but more affordable options.
According to reporting from Phillies Nation’s Destiny Lugardo, one of the names on Philadelphia’s radar is former New York Mets outfielder Michael Conforto — a player whose recent performance raises as many concerns as possibilities.
Philadelphia’s Offseason Outfield Priorities
The Phillies are expected to look for outfield depth through both domestic and international options. Should Schwarber leave in free agency, the team could shift its focus to a more impactful target such as Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker, though he is expected to draw heavy competition and command a significant contract.
If those plans fall through, Conforto is viewed as a potential fallback option.
Why Conforto Is a Risky Target
Conforto is coming off the worst season of his career. After signing a one-year, $17 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers for 2025, he struggled to produce offensively and was left off the roster for every postseason series.
Conforto’s 2025 Statistics:
- Contract: 1 year, $17 million
- Batting average: .199
- OPS: .637
- Postseason: Left off all four Dodgers playoff series
The Dodgers, known for maximizing underperforming veterans, were ultimately unable to find a productive role for him. Lugardo noted his sharp decline, pointing out that he remained on the roster through the regular season despite his struggles but was deemed unusable in October.
How Fans Might React
A move for Conforto would likely be unpopular in Philadelphia. Fans expect meaningful upgrades, and Conforto’s recent track record makes him a high-risk, low-reward option.
His struggles date back to his major shoulder surgery in 2022, raising doubts about whether his decline is temporary or permanent. Once a 30-homer threat, Conforto’s inability to make consistent contact has significantly reduced his value.
Still, with the Phillies comfortable using Jhailyn Crawford or Brandon Marsh in center field, a cheap corner-outfield signing remains possible.
Possible Contract Fit
Any deal for Conforto would likely be short-term and inexpensive, aimed at capturing potential upside without major financial commitment.
Projected Contract:
- Around $5 million
- Low-risk bounce-back signing
A move at that price would still be a gamble, but one the Phillies could absorb if it doesn’t work out.
The Bigger Picture
Philadelphia’s offseason strategy may depend on whether they successfully land a high-level outfielder. If they miss out, they could be forced to consider depth options like Conforto — a player with a strong past, inconsistent recent performance, and an uncertain future.
If the Phillies take the chance, they’ll be hoping for a rebound season. But as Lugardo noted, the gamble is far from guaranteed, and fan criticism would likely be immediate if the move backfires.
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