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Philadelphia Phillies: The pros and cons of hiring Dave Dombrowski

By David Esser

Feb 25, 2019; Bradenton, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski speaks with members of the media before the start of the spring training game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at LECOM Park. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 25, 2019; Bradenton, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski speaks with members of the media before the start of the spring training game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at LECOM Park. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 23, 2020; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Bryce Harper (3) is congratulated by catcher J.T. Realmuto (10) after hitting a solo home run against the Washington Nationals during the first inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2020; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Bryce Harper (3) is congratulated by catcher J.T. Realmuto (10) after hitting a solo home run against the Washington Nationals during the first inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

Pro: A desire to spend $$$

Outside of his affinity for win now trades, Dombrowski has also shown a pretty consistent desire to spend money. He’s orchestrated some of the biggest contracts in baseball history, routinely overpaying to retain/acquire talent.

Some of his most iconic signings include throwing $200+ million at RHP David Price, and a near $300 million contract for slugger Miguel Cabrera. Whether you view these types of moves in a positive or negative light, one thing remains certain: Dombrowski likes to spend.

When it comes to the Philadelphia Phillies, the general consensus is that they need to continue to spend big money if they want to capitalize on Bryce Harper’s prime. Retaining J.T. Realmuto is a borderline necessity, bringing back Didi Gregorius would be an added bonus, and the bullpen needs an entire reworking. With Dombrowski now in town, the likelihood that he conveys a need to spend to owner John Middleton seems strong.

It’s entirely possible that Middleton remains firm in his desire to shed salary this winter, but it’s hard to imagine Dombrowski signing up for a job where his spending power is being limited. Eventually, Dombrowski is going to be allowed to open up the checkbook, and that’s overall good news for the Phillies.

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