unique possibilities. The Phillies finished at the bottom of the NL East in runs scored and OPS at DH during the 2023 season, and the energetic addition of Ohtani to their lineup would certainly shake things up. His presence would provide a much-needed counterbalance to the team’s right-handed hitters and create the potential for a truly formidable offense. In addition, his arrival could also open up opportunities for the development and integration of young players, such as Bryson Stott, Johan Rojas, and Luis Garcia, into the batting lineup. The Phillies’ future, then, lies in potential free-agent signings, return to form for Harper and Ohtani, and in the integration of talented young pitchers from their farm system. The Phillies, like a lot of contending teams, seem to build out their starting pitching year after year, then dismantle it in the offseason. But with a premier talent like Ohtani available, the Phillies may consider breaking that cycle. Despite the organization’s historical spending habits, it’s difficult to imagine a world where the Phillies don’t at least make an impassioned play for Ohtani’s services. The Phillies have spent money before, but they’ve never tried to sign someone quite like Ohtani.
Shohei Ohtani’s Possible Suitors: Exploring 12 Potential Fits as Free Agency Begins
