Veteran catcher J.T. Realmuto has agreed to a three-year, $45 million contract to remain with the Philadelphia Phillies, according to multiple reports. The deal includes up to $5 million in annual bonuses. Realmuto’s decision solidifies the Phillies’ core, following Kyle Schwarber’s recent re-signing and amidst a busy MLB offseason for the National League East.

Philadelphia pursued top free agent Bo Bichette before he signed with the Mets, making Realmuto’s return a key stabilizing move. A three-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner, Realmuto, 35, provides veteran leadership and durability behind the plate. His .257 batting average and .700 OPS last season marked a decline, but his game-calling remains highly valued.

Realmuto’s contract maintains his status as the highest-paid catcher by average annual value. As one of MLB’s rare everyday backstops, his 641 games played over five seasons trail only Salvador Perez. The Phillies’ offseason now focuses on filling other needs after missing out on Bichette, while Realmuto aims to rebound offensively in 2026.