Phillies could replace Alec Bohm with undrafted slugger catching team’s eye
Context:
The Philadelphia Phillies are contemplating replacing their current third baseman, Alec Bohm, due to a disappointing performance with a .228/.267/.283 slash line and a -0.8 WAR in 2025. Despite Bohm's previous All-Star performance in 2024, his slump has persisted into the playoffs, sparking trade speculation. The Phillies, unable to find a suitable trade partner, are considering Otto Kemp, an undrafted slugger excelling in Triple-A with a .344/.433/1.136 slash line and 10 home runs in 128 at-bats. Kemp's defensive versatility makes him a strong contender for the third base position. Manager Rob Thomson and general manager Preston Mattingly both highlight Kemp's impressive start and potential fit at third base, hinting at a possible call-up if Bohm's performance does not improve.
Dive Deeper:
Alec Bohm's performance has been underwhelming in 2025, with a .228/.267/.283 slash line, no home runs, and a -0.8 WAR, leading the Phillies to reconsider their roster strategy.
Despite a stellar first half in 2024 that earned him an All-Star nod, Bohm's performance declined in the second half and into the playoffs, leading to trade speculations over the winter.
The Phillies explored potential trades involving Bohm but did not find an offer they deemed worthwhile, leaving them in a challenging position regarding his future with the team.
Otto Kemp, an undrafted player from Division II college baseball, has been making waves in Triple-A with an impressive .344/.433/1.136 slash line and 10 home runs in 128 at-bats.
Kemp's defensive versatility, particularly at third base, is highlighted by the Phillies' manager Rob Thomson and general manager Preston Mattingly, suggesting he could be a valuable asset to the major league team.
If Kemp continues his strong performance, the Phillies may consider calling him up to replace Bohm, especially if Bohm's struggles at the plate persist.
The potential move underscores the Phillies' need to make strategic changes following their early playoff exit and Bohm's inability to rebound from his slump.
The Philadelphia Phillies considered a major offseason move without pulling the trigger, but it might not be too late.
After earning an All-Star nod with a stellar first half in 2024, third baseman Alec Bohm saw a second-half slump persist into the playoffs and drive trade speculation this past winter.
“The Phillies considered altering their roster after an early playoff exit and he was viewed as a player who could bring something meaningful back in a trade,” according to a February update from NBC Sports Philadelphia. “The right offer never materialized…”
Though the Phillies have held onto Bohm, they might wish they pulled the trigger earlier. With a .228/.267/.283 slash line, no homers and a -0.8 WAR in his first 127 at-bats for 2025, he’s been a disappointment by virtually every measure.
At this point in the season, the Phillies might not be able to find an intriguing trade partner for him. But they could turn to a surprising slugger who has been dominating Triple-A as a replacement.
“Tremendous,” manager Rob Thomson said, when asked about Otto Kemp, per On Pattison’s Tim Kelly. “It’s on-base, it’s slug, the defense has been solid. He’s had a great start to the year.”
After going undrafted following his Division II college career, Kemp has an outstanding .344/.433/1.136 slash line with 10 homers through his first 128 at-bats. Perhaps even more intriguing, though, is some defensive versatility that could help Kemp find a home on the big-league team.
“I think he has the ability to play all over,” Phillies general manager Preston Mattingly said, per Kelly. “I think third base is his best spot… I think third base is his most natural spot.”
If Kemp’s hot start grows, the Phillies might consider calling him up. And third base could be up for grabs if Bohm doesn’t improve.
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