Phillies agree to a one-year deal with veteran Whit Merrifield

The Phillies have secured the services of utility player Whit Merrifield on a one-year contract valued at $8 million, confirmed by sources to The Philadelphia Baseball Review on Friday. This deal also encompasses a club option for a second year, accompanied by a $1 million buyout clause. Merrifield's salary for the initial year stands at $7 million. According to ESPN, his potential earnings could reach up to $16.6 million over the span of two years, factoring in performance bonuses. 

 

At 35 years old, Merrifield adds depth to the Phillies' outfield, providing valuable insurance as Brandon Marsh recuperates from knee surgery. Although primarily recognized for his proficiency at second base, the veteran boasts versatility, having logged significant playing time across all three outfield positions. Notably, he accumulated 594 innings in left field for Toronto during the previous season. 

 

A three-time All-Star, Merrifield boasted impressive stats last season, batting .272 with 11 home runs, 67 RBIs, and a .700 OPS over 592 plate appearances with Toronto. Despite spending the bulk of his career as a second baseman with the Royals, he demonstrated his adaptability by playing 84 games in the outfield for the Blue Jays last year. 

 

With the arrival of Merrifield, the Phillies' outfield dynamics shift, altering the status of Cristian Pache and Jake Cave, who were initially considered the team's fourth and fifth outfield options. However, both players now face a roster dilemma as they have used up their options, requiring removal from the 40-man roster if they fail to secure spots on the Opening Day roster. 

 

Merrifield boasts an impressive career batting average of .284/.330/.420 over his eight-year tenure with Toronto and Kansas City.