After evaluating the Philadelphia Phillies’ best free-agent signings since 2000, it’s time to examine the ones that didn’t work out. The Phillies have made several moves in free agency this century, some of which turned into costly mistakes. These deals ranged in duration and impact—some were quickly undone, while others lingered despite poor performances. High expectations often led to major disappointments, and in some cases, financial ramifications extended beyond the player’s tenure due to deferred contract structures.
The Worst Phillies Free-Agent Signings Since 2000
Didi Gregorius – Two years, $20 million
Signed before the 2020 season, Didi Gregorius initially performed well, slashing .284/.339/.488 with 10 home runs and 40 RBIs over 60 games in the shortened season. His efforts earned him a 120 OPS+ and a 1.2 bWAR.
However, his production declined drastically in the following two seasons. From 2021 onward, Gregorius hit just .210/.267/.345 with 14 home runs and 73 RBIs across 166 games. His OPS+ plummeted to 68, and his bWAR sank to -1.2. The Phillies ultimately released him on August 4, 2022, and he has not returned to the majors since.
Josh Harrison – One year, $2 million
Josh Harrison signed with the Phillies before the 2023 season, appearing in just 40 games. His offensive struggles were apparent, as he posted a .204/.263/.291 slash line with two home runs and 10 RBIs. His 52 OPS+ and -0.6 bWAR highlighted his underwhelming performance.
This was the second time in his career that Harrison was released within a single season. In 2019, the Detroit Tigers cut him after 36 games due to similarly poor numbers. The Phillies followed suit on August 2, 2023, releasing him before he could play another game.
Taijuan Walker – Four years, $72 million
Like Gregorius, Taijuan Walker started strong but saw a rapid decline. In 2023, Walker posted a respectable 15-6 record with a 4.38 ERA and 138 strikeouts across 31 starts, achieving a 98 ERA+ and a 2.5 bWAR.
However, his 2024 season was disastrous. Walker managed a 3-7 record with a bloated 7.10 ERA and just 58 strikeouts in 19 games. His ERA+ tumbled to 57, and his bWAR fell to -1.6. Heading into 2025 spring training, Walker faces an uncertain future as he fights for a spot in the Phillies’ rotation. Notably, he is the only player on this list still with the team.
Whit Merrifield – One year, $8 million
Signed as a utility player before the 2024 season, Whit Merrifield struggled to find his rhythm in Philadelphia. Over 52 games, he hit just .199/.277/.295 with three home runs and 11 RBIs. His 62 OPS+ and 0.1 bWAR reflected his minimal impact.
The Phillies released Merrifield on July 12, 2024, opting to replace him with Weston Wilson, who assumed his platoon role alongside Brandon Marsh in left field. Merrifield quickly found a new home, signing with the Atlanta Braves just 10 days later.
Adam Eaton – Three years, $24 million
Arguably the worst free-agent signing of the century for the Phillies, Adam Eaton joined the rotation before the 2007 season. His tenure was nothing short of a disaster, as he posted a 14-18 record with a 6.10 ERA and 154 strikeouts in 51 appearances. His struggles translated to a 74 ERA+ and a -2.6 bWAR over two seasons, making them the worst of his career by that metric.
Originally drafted by the Phillies in 1996, Eaton was traded to the San Diego Padres before ever pitching in the majors. His second stint with the Phillies ended unceremoniously when the team released him on February 27, 2009, bringing an end to one of their most regrettable signings.
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