ESPN Insider Projects Harrison Bader's Free Agency Value
Harrison Bader began the 2025 season with the Minnesota Twins, holding the third-highest batting average on the team before being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies ahead of the deadline. The Phillies aimed to fill an outfield gap, and Bader performed strongly in that role.
2025 Performance Highlights
Bader played in 50 regular-season games for the Phillies, posting impressive offensive stats with a .305 batting average, .361 on-base percentage, and .463 slugging percentage. He contributed five home runs and 16 RBIs during that span. By the end of the season, Bader reached a career-high total of 17 home runs.
Free Agency Outlook
As Bader heads to free agency, he is expected to attract notable interest this offseason. While he will be one of the top center fielders available, his spotlight may be overshadowed by Cody Bellinger, who is projected to sign a contract exceeding $160 million. Bader's expected contract will be significantly smaller.
Contract Projections and Risks
"I think there will be interest in a two-year deal with some risk that he might be a fourth outfielder in the second year of the deal."
ESPN's Kiley McDaniel projects Bader to secure a two-year contract worth $25 million. McDaniel cautions that Bader's offensive numbers might decline, which could lead to him becoming a team's fourth outfielder in the deal's second year. However, due to the scarcity of center fielders, some teams might take a chance on him despite the risk.
Summary
Harrison Bader is poised to receive a solid two-year contract this offseason, balancing his strong 2025 performance with potential risks noted by experts.
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