Phillies Projected to Sign Three-Time All-Star and Win NL East
With the 2025 MLB season about to begin, speculation is already swirling about what the offseason could bring. In a recent article, Jim Bowden of The Athletic made 25 bold predictions for the year, three of which involve the Philadelphia Phillies, setting high expectations for the franchise.
One of Bowden’s predictions is that the Phillies will promote top pitching prospect Andrew Painter, who will not only make his MLB debut but also secure double-digit wins and earn a spot in the postseason rotation. Painter has dominated the minors with an 8-2 record, a 1.58 ERA, and 185 strikeouts, and he is expected to make a significant impact at the big league level.
Another prediction is that the Phillies will claim the NL East title. After winning the division in 2024 for the first time since 2011, Bowden believes they are well-positioned to repeat, given their strong returning roster.
The most eye-catching prediction, however, is that the Phillies will sign three-time All-Star Kyle Tucker after a stellar season with the Chicago Cubs. Bowden forecasts a massive 14-year, $604 million contract that would make Tucker Philadelphia’s right fielder for the next decade, likely shifting Nick Castellanos to left field or designated hitter.
Tucker, who previously spent three seasons with the Houston Astros before being traded to the Cubs, hit .289 with 23 home runs and 49 RBIs last season. Bowden expects another standout campaign from Tucker before he lands in Philadelphia, where he could be a key piece in a World Series push. Known for his ability to get on base, drive in runs, and provide solid defense, Tucker would be a major addition to the Phillies’ lineup alongside Bryce Harper and J.T. Realmuto.
With the Astros seemingly on the decline after years of dominance, Tucker could be tempted to leave for a championship contender. Securing a long-term, high-dollar deal while joining a team with legitimate title aspirations would make Philadelphia an attractive destination.
If these predictions hold true—with Painter emerging as a key rotation piece, the Phillies winning the division, and Tucker joining the roster—Philadelphia fans could be in for an unforgettable season.
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