Unlike the Eagles, it appears the Phillies have done well in a big spot.
Free agent Bo Bichette’s meeting with the franchise went ‘very well’ on Monday according to The Post’s Jon Heymanwhich should increase their chances of signing him as he admires the ‘top-notch’ organization.
The Phillies’ pursuit of Bichette has implications for the Yankees as they are interested in the Blue Jays shortstop amid their lingering talks with outfielder Cody Bellinger.
Bichette, 27, is one of the best players available, and with spring training starting in about a month, it appears he will leave Toronto.
The Yankees and Phillies have been linked to him in recent weeks and it appears talks are intensifying with Philadelphia in their quest to keep up with the Dodgers in the NL.
While ultimately, as with virtually any free agent, it will come down to the money, Heyman noted that the reigning NL East champions need to emphasize several positive factors.
The talented roster, the hitter-friendly environment of Citizens Bank Park, the recent hiring of ex-Toronto bench coach Don Mattingly to serve in that same role and the team’s spring training complex in Clearwater, Florida, near the infielder’s home, are all selling points for the franchise.
There would be roster construction questions regarding such a move, including whether the team would potentially trade third baseman Alec Bohm and possibly not re-sign catcher JT Realmuto.
It’s uncertain whether he would play second base or third base, as the Phillies have signed Trea Turner long-term as the shortstop man, but baseball great Dave Dombrowski is always aggressive.
Should Bichette head to the City of Brotherly Love, that leaves one less option for the Yankees if they decide not to meet Cody Bellinger’s contract requirements.
The Yankees have offered $155 million for a five-year term, but Bellinger wants a seven-year partnership.
The other top prospect still available is Kyle Tucker, but the Mets – not the Yankees – are the New York team linked to him.
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