Harrison Bader Ineligible for Qualifying Offer
If the Philadelphia Phillies do not re-sign center fielder Harrison Bader in free agency, they will receive no compensation upon his departure.
Reason for Ineligibility
Since Bader was traded during the 2025 season, the Phillies cannot extend a qualifying offer to him. To be eligible for a qualifying offer, a player must have spent the entire season with the same team. This applies whether it is the Phillies or the Minnesota Twins.
Contract Status
Bader declined his half of a $10 million mutual option for 2026, which triggered a $3 million buyout owed to him. This decision allows him to enter free agency.
Implications for the Phillies
If Bader signs elsewhere, the Phillies will be left without compensation. This contrasts with players like Kyle Schwarber and Ranger Suárez, who the Phillies will definitely offer qualifying offers to. Both are expected to decline, enabling the Phillies to receive a compensatory draft pick after the fourth round of the 2026 MLB Draft if they sign with another team.
Harrison Bader to @TyDaubert on his time with the Phillies and future as he heads to free agency (Via @TimKellySports)
The compensatory picks for Schwarber and Suárez are modest compared to their value, but still provide some return for the Phillies.
Summary
Because Bader was traded midseason and declined his 2026 option, the Phillies cannot protect their interests with a qualifying offer, risking losing him with no compensation.
Author’s summary: Harrison Bader’s midseason trade and declining his option make him ineligible for a qualifying offer, leaving the Phillies without compensation if he signs elsewhere.