Harrison Bader Bets on Himself and Leaves the Phillies with Questions in Center
Harrison Bader declined his $10 million mutual option for the 2026 season after delivering a career year, hitting .305 for Philadelphia. The Phillies now face uncertainty in their outfield.
Key Decision and Background
Bader's decision to decline the option was expected, as mutual options in baseball rarely get exercised—the last one was by Aramis Ramirez with the Brewers over a decade ago. This move makes Bader a free agent.
Career Year Highlights
- Age: 31
- Season batting average: .277 combined between Minnesota and Philadelphia
- Home runs: 17
- RBIs: 54
- OPS: .796
- OPS+: 117
This season marked a turning point for Bader, known primarily for his defensive prowess, as he showed notable improvement with the bat.
Impact in Philadelphia
After joining the Phillies at the trade deadline, Bader raised his performance even further.
- Batting average with Philadelphia: .305
- OPS with Philadelphia: .824
He electrified the outfield with impressive plays and energized the dugout. Multiple teammates described him as "the motor" driving the team forward.
"He became, in the words of more than one teammate, the motor."
With Bader betting on himself in free agency, the Phillies must now reconsider their options in center field.
Summary: Harrison Bader’s choice to decline his option after a standout season challenges the Phillies to fill a critical outfield role as he pursues free agency.