The Philadelphia Phillies and star catcher J.T. Realmuto agreed to a five-year, $115.5-million contract, pending a physical, Craig Mish of MLB Network reports.
Realmuto's deal carries an average annual value of $23.1 million, which is the largest for a backstop in MLB history, Mish adds.
The 29-year-old's deal reportedly includes deferred money.
Per source: Realmuto's contract includes a $1 million assignment clause if he’s traded. He'll earn $20 million in 2021 ($10 million deferred, paid $5 million each in 2026 and 2027). He'll earn $23.875 million per season from 2022-25.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) January 26, 2021
Prior to Realmuto's reported deal, Brian McCann's five-year, $85-million pact with the New York Yankees in 2013 was the largest ever for a free-agent catcher. Meanwhile, Joe Mauer's eight-year, $184-million extension with the Minnesota Twins in 2010 still holds the record for guaranteed money.
Realmuto amassed an .825 OPS with 36 homers over his two years with Philadelphia.
The two-time All-Star owns a career .278/.328/.455 slash line with 95 round-trippers and 358 RBIs over seven years with the Phillies and Miami Marlins. He's also a two-time Silver Slugger and a Gold Glove winner.
Phillies teammate Bryce Harper expressed his excitement over the news while welcoming Realmuto back in the fold.
The Atlanta Braves, Toronto Blue Jays, and Washington Nationals also reportedly expressed interest in signing Realmuto during the offseason.
