Phils hope to sign Wheeler to long-term deal, Dombrowski says
CLEARWATER, FLA. >> The Philadelphia Phillies have spoken to Zack Wheeler’s representation about a new contract as the pitcher heads into the final season of a $118 million, five-year deal.
Wheeler said last week he prefers reaching an agreement before the season starts March 28.
“Zack would not mislead you. Of course, we’ve talked,” president of operations Dave Dombrowski said Monday. “It is a priority. We would love to get that deal done.”
A 33-year-old righthander, Wheeler has a $23.6 million salary this season. He was 13-6 with a 3.61 ERA last year and 1.08 WHIP. His 2.42 ERA in the postseason is sixthbest among pitchers with 10 or more starts.
“He’s a guy we would love to have in our organization for a long time,” Dombrowski said.
Philadelphia agreed in November with pitcher Aaron Nola on a $172 million, seven-year contract.
Merrfield Deal Finalized
Utility infielder and outfielder Whit Merrifield and the Phillies finalized an $8 million, one-year contract on Monday.
Merrifield gets a $7 million salary this year, and the deal includes a $8 million club option for 2025 with a $1 million buyout.
“I’ve been a threetime All-Star. I’ve led the league in hits a couple times. I’ve led the league in stolen bases. I’ve led the league in all these different things that I feel like I’ve proven that I’m here and that I can play,” Merrifield said. “I was an All-Star last year. I’ve done that. I want to win, though, so I’m here to do whatever I need to do to win and to help this team win, whether it’s saying I should be the cheerleader for 162 games — I don’t think that’s why they brought me here, but if that’s what they want me to do, I just want to win.”
The 35-year-old hit .272 with 11 home runs and 67 RBIs last season while with the Toronto Blue Jays. He has 201 stolen bases and led the American League while with the Kansas City Royals three times. He topped the AL with 206 hits and 10 triples in 2019.
Merrifield is expected to provide a solid righthanded bat off the bench and also play the outfield. The Phillies entered spring training without starting left fielder Brandon Marsh, who had left knee surgery two weeks ago that was expected to sideline him for three to four weeks.
Merrifield has mostly played second base with the Royals but was an outfielder last year. He has proven to be dependable, playing every game for Kansas City from 2019-21.
Merrifield and Toronto both declined his $18 million mutual option for 2024, allowing him to become a free agent.
Right-hander Caleb Ort was designated for assignment to open a roster spot.