The Philadelphia Phillies have announced the return of outfielder Óscar Mercado, signing him to a minor league contract ahead of spring training.
Mercado, who briefly appeared for the Phillies in 2022, will join infielder Christian Arroyo as non-roster invitees to major league camp. The move aims to bolster the team’s outfield depth as they prepare for the 2025 season.
Mercado, a former second-round pick by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2013, had a fleeting stint with the Phillies in 2022. Claimed off waivers from the Cleveland Guardians, he recorded just one at-bat in the majors, striking out before being designated for assignment. Despite his limited impact in Philadelphia, Mercado brings experience and versatility, having played in the big leagues across five seasons.
The 30-year-old outfielder is best known for his 2019 campaign with Cleveland, where he posted 2.3 bWAR and finished eighth in the American League Rookie of the Year voting. While his recent performances have been modest, Mercado showcased his potential in the minors last year, hitting 12 home runs, driving in 50 RBIs, and stealing 16 bases in 93 games split between the San Diego Padres and Detroit Tigers organizations.
Though Mercado is unlikely to challenge the Phillies’ projected Opening Day outfielders, his speed, defensive flexibility, and occasional power make him a valuable depth piece. He is expected to begin the season with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, sharing outfield duties with prospects like Cal Stevenson, Matt Kroon, and Gabriel Rincones Jr.
The Phillies’ decision to bring back Mercado reflects their strategy of adding experienced players to compete in spring training while providing insurance for the major league roster.
Fans will be watching to see if Mercado can seize this opportunity for redemption and carve out a role in Philadelphia’s plans for the upcoming season.
