FLORENCE, FL (AP) -In exchange for less guaranteed money and possibly less playing time than he could have received elsewhere, Whit Merrifield was willing to join with the Philadelphia Phillies.
After agreeing to a $8 million, one-year contract, the 35-year-old infielder and outfielder stated on Monday, “It checked a lot of boxes for me.” “This team’s and the clubhouse’s reputations travel. I was envious of the Philadelphia playoff games and wished I could have been there. I’m overjoyed.”
Merrifield’s contract calls for a $8 million club option with a $1 million buyout in 2025 in addition to his $7 million pay this year.
“I was an All-Star three times. I’ve had a few hits that lead the league. In stolen bases, I’ve topped the league. I feel like I’ve shown that I’m here and that I can play since I’ve led the league in all these various categories,” Merrifield remarked. Last year, I was an All-Star. That’s what I did. Though I don’t think that’s why they invited me here, I’m here to do whatever it takes to help this team win because I want to win.” “Even if that means calling me the cheerleader for 162 games, I just want to win.”
35-year-old struck out.272 with 67 RBIs, 11 home runs, and the Toronto Blue Jays during the previous season.
Baseball’s right fielder Nick Castellanos described him as a “complete” player. “He plays the game the right way.”
While playing with the Kansas City Royals, Merrifield led the American League three times and had 201 stolen bases. With 206 hits and 10 triples in 2019, he led the AL.
“We have been observing him for a considerable amount of time,” stated Dave Dombrowski, president of operations. “He is a versatile player. He’s a player that we like. At first, we were worried about whether he would accept the kind of role we would play in the club.”
Merrifield is anticipated to play outfield as well as give a reliable right-handed bat off the bench. The starting left fielder Brandon Marsh, who underwent left knee surgery two weeks ago and is anticipated to be sidelined for three to four weeks, was not present for the Phillies’ spring training.
Phillies left fielder Kyle Schwarber stated, “The super-utility role is underappreciated.” “Almost since he entered the major leagues, Whit has performed at a high level. Being able to add a player of his caliber to your team increases your danger significantly.”
Merrifield was an outfielder last season but has spent most of his time at second base for the Royals. With Kansas City from 2019 to 21, he participated in every game, demonstrating his dependability.
The Phillies’ manager, Rob Thomson, stated, “He can play anywhere on the diamond, really.” Since these men love to play, taking them out of the lineup is going to cause problems. But occasionally, we will have to do it.”
His $18 million mutual option for 2024 was turned down by Merrifield and Toronto, making him a free agent.
After being designated for assignment to clear a space on the roster, right-hander Kaleb Ort was moved to Baltimore in exchange for cash.
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