Bohm Predicted to Sign With Cardinals
Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Alec Bohm is expected to leave free agency by signing a two-year, $30 million contract with the St. Louis Cardinals, according to reports. The agreement includes an opt-out clause after the 2027 season.
The prediction of Bohm’s departure follows his inconsistent performance during the current season, which featured a poor start followed by strong hitting in the second half and off-field issues, as reported. Last season, Bohm slashed .249/.315/.383 with 15 home runs and 88 RBI.
The Phillies are anticipated to seek another option at third base for the upcoming season. Aidan Miller has been mentioned as a potential favorite for the starting job at the position.
Clubs Pursue Japanese Pitching Prospect Shoki Oda
In a separate development, the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies are among several Major League Baseball clubs pursuing Japanese pitching prospect Shoki Oda in free agency. MLB reporter Francys Romero stated that Oda is expected to meet with several MLB clubs, including the Dodgers, Yankees, and Phillies, in the coming hours.
Oda would be eligible to sign a contract starting January 15, 2027, when the new international signing period begins, if not postponed. At 18 years old, Oda is looking to make his mark in professional baseball, though it remains unclear how quickly he would reach the major leagues.
Background on Oda’s Path to Free Agency
Oda was selected in the first round of the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) draft but declined to join an organization, choosing instead to pitch in America directly, according to Dodgers Nation’s Nelson Espinal.
Dodgers Face Pitching Dilemma
While the Dodgers are actively pursuing Oda, ESPN’s Alden Gonzales noted that the team is flush with starting pitching for 2027. Shohei Ohtani is adamant about being a two-way player again, and several other pitchers are under contract or ready for rotation spots.