The Philadelphia Phillies have emerged as a potential destination for a veteran outfielder formerly with the Kansas City Royals, as speculation continues to swirl around the free-agent market.
While Kansas City made several productive moves during the offseason, it appears increasingly unlikely that Randal Grichuk will be part of their plans moving forward.
The Royals addressed key needs over the winter, particularly on offense. They acquired Isaac Collins in a trade and signed outfielder Lane Thomas to bolster their lineup. Kansas City also focused on upgrading its bullpen. As part of the Collins deal, the club landed reliever Nick Mears from the Milwaukee Brewers, and they later added left-hander Matt Strahm in another trade. With these reinforcements, the Royals have positioned themselves to be competitive in the American League Central. Although the Detroit Tigers are widely viewed as the favorites in the division, Kansas City should still be firmly in the mix.
However, not every player from last season’s roster is expected to return. Grichuk, who was acquired at the trade deadline in July, remains unsigned. According to Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer, the veteran outfielder could ultimately land with the Philadelphia Phillies. Earlier in the offseason, both Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon of The Athletic connected Grichuk to Philadelphia as a possible fit.
The Phillies have reason to explore the outfield market. They recently parted ways with Nick Castellanos and saw Harrison Bader depart in free agency for the San Francisco Giants. With openings in their outfield rotation, adding an experienced bat like Grichuk could provide depth and veteran stability.
From Kansas City’s perspective, though, a reunion does not seem necessary. Grichuk struggled offensively after arriving via trade, posting a .228 batting average with a .273 on-base percentage and a .299 slugging percentage. He hit nine home runs and recorded a .674 OPS across his time with the Royals and Arizona Diamondbacks during the regular season. Those numbers fell short of the impact Kansas City had hoped for when they dealt for him at the deadline.
At 34 years old, Grichuk still offers experience and defensive versatility, but the Royals appear ready to move in a different direction. Highly regarded prospect Jac Caglianone is expected to play a larger role in 2026, and the organization believes he is prepared for increased responsibility. With Caglianone continuing to develop and the additions of Thomas and Collins strengthening the lineup, Kansas City feels confident in its current offensive outlook.
Thomas has the potential to rebound and provide consistent production, while Collins impressed last season as a National League Rookie of the Year candidate and played a key role in helping Milwaukee capture the NL Central title. Given those upgrades and internal growth, the Royals seem comfortable with their roster composition.
While it remains to be seen whether Kansas City makes additional moves before Opening Day, bringing Grichuk back does not appear to be a priority. For now, the focus is on building around their new additions and emerging talent, leaving the door open for Philadelphia to pursue the veteran outfielder instead.
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