The Atlanta Braves aren't the only NL East powerhouse that's had a quiet winter. The 2024 division winning Phillies are normally contenders for many of the top free agents each year with their almost limitless coffers. However, this offseason Phillies President of Baseball Operations, Dave Dombrowski and co. have been weirdly stagnant.
Apparently that's the way things will continue to go according to Dombrowski. He was quoted as saying that Philadelphia is likely done with "impactful" signings this offseason. News that should have Braves country doing victory laps.
Dave Dombrowski says Phillies are likely done with "impactful" signings. On Roki Sasaki:
— Paul Casella (@Paul_CasellaMLB) December 20, 2024
"We have not been invited to talk to him at this point. We sent in our original info, they know we would very much like to have a presentation, but we haven't been invited to the table."
Phillies said to be out on big names left on the market
Philly's "big" offseason move came just a few days ago when signed Max Kepler to a one-year deal. Because the team has such massive amounts of money going to their superstars on the roster, Philadelphia's payroll is estimated close to $300 million and above the third luxury tax threshold.
Meanwhile the Braves still have around $25 million to spend before they reach the luxury tax. Braves fans have been suffering as they await a move, but at least we have been told a move is coming. For Phillies fans to know the roster as constructed now is likely what the team will roll with in 2025 has to be an empty feeling.
Just one splash signing from Atlanta could really shakeup the narratives around each NL East club. While the market has dwindled, there are still plenty of impact names that could propel each of these NL Eastern teams.
Yes, the Braves moves so far this offseason have been minor transactions, but at least we know Anthopoulos has intentions of making this team better than what it stands right now. Team offices will be closing for the holidays soon, so an impact move from Anthopoulos could be enough to send Phillies into a black hole during what's supposed to be one of the most joyous times of the year.