MARLINS JETTISON J.T. REALMUTO TO PHILLY
The Philadelphia Phillies acquired catcher J.T. Realmuto from the Miami Marlins for pitcher Sixto Sanchez, catcher Jorge Alfaro, pitcher Will Stewart and international bonus pool money in 2018-19.
What does it give the Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies apparently had the winning ticket and wound up winning the Realmuto sweepstakes. The star catcher instantly helps Philadelphia's offense and also provides more leadership to the young squad. He will probably hit near the top of the order and make an impact. Playing half the time at Citizens Bank Park should also help his home-run totals. While Philly gave up a ton to land him, Realmuto could help them win the division in 2019 (and beyond).
What does it give the Miami Marlins
The Marlins obviously love Sanchez and Alfaro, since they traded Realmuto within the National League East division. Several other teams were suitors for Realmuto's services but Miami ultimately chose the Phillies' package. Alfaro will immediately replace Realmuto as the Marlins' starting catcher, while Sanchez may become the staff ace at some point. Adding more money to sign international free agents is also huge for the Fish. Stewart might become a sleeper acquisition down the road, as well.
Fantasy impact
Realmuto's fantasy stock could not have spiked more after moving from Miami to Philadelphia. He might now be considered the top fantasy catcher of 2019 (if he was not already). Alfaro's stock also gets a boost from this deal, as he should play even more as a Marlin than what was projected with the Phillies. Sanchez is a true keeper and should be one of the first players off the board in most keeper leagues this year, while Stewart is now on the keeper radar.
Player focus
Miami Marlins
international bonus pool money in 2018-19
