Revisiting the Phillies-Marlins Trade for JT Realmuto

What an encouraging MLB career it has been for JT Realmuto.

A 2010 Marlins draft pick, Realmuto spent years in the minors before receiving a shot at the big leagues. When that time came, Realmuto delivered. Disinterested in remaining in Miami, a trade became inevitable and Realmuto made his way to Philly in exchange for Jorge Alfaro, Sixto Sanchez and Will Stewart.

The Phillies knew exactly what they were getting and have not been disappointed since. In his 2019 tenure, Realmuto cemented himself as a monster both at the plate and behind it, with .275/.328/.493 batting numbers and high marks on the defensive end, resulting in a second All-Star and Silver Slugger award.

Things are a little more interesting for the Marlins, as they invested in unproven players, hoping things would work out in the end.

Presenting a similar skillset to Realmuto, Jorge Alfaro is known for his speed, and that showed with the fastest sprint speed of all catchers with Miami. He is a mixed bag at the plate, but the potential is there.

Will Stewart delivered a remarkable year in 2018 at the Lower-A level, with a 2.06 ERA, but struggled with the Marlins' Triple-A affiliate. A 6-12 record and 5.43 ERA is not ideal, but as Stewart continues to adjust to higher level hitters, his numbers are bound to improve.

At the age of 21, Sixto Sanchez has a bright future, evident in his appearance in the 2019 All-Star Futures game. While spending time in the minors, Sanchez looks to be a solid pitcher for the Marlins as he develops his stuff.

Ultimately, much of the Realmuto deal is still in question, but it looks to have worked for both teams. The Phillies received a surefire talent complimenting their win-now mentality, and the Marlins continue their rebuild with three players who will deliver in the years to come.