Former White Sox 2B Josh Harrison to Sign With Phillies

The veteran second baseman will join the Phillies after one season with the White Sox.

Former Chicago White Sox infielder Josh Harrison is heading to Philadelphia, per multiple reports. Harrison served as the Sox starting second baseman during the 2022 campaign, his lone season in Chicago. The White Sox signed Harrison to a one-year deal with a second-year club option, but he became a free agent when Chicago declined his 2023 option in November.

Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports that Harrison's pact with the Phillies is a one-year deal worth $2 million. With pitchers and catchers set to report in less than three weeks, Harrison will be in camp with the reigning National League champions.

What Are The Phillies Getting in Josh Harrison?

The veteran second baseman appeared in 119 games for the White Sox in 2022. Unfortunately, it was a tale of two seasons for Harrison. His campaign started with an abysmal 35-game stretch during which he slashed just .167/.248/.255. But he worked through his early struggles and started contributing on offense in his next 84 games with a .289/.342/.412 slash line, seven homers, and 24 RBIs.

Harrison joins a Phillies team that got off to a slow start last season but ended up winning the NL pennant. Philadelphia began the year 22-29, which sparked the firing of Joe Girardi. The team went 65-46 the rest of the way and made the postseason for the first time since 2011. Philadelphia removed Rob Thompson's interim manager tag in the offseason, and he signed on to be the skipper through 2024.

Josh Harrison enters a star-studded roster that expects to contend for a World Series title in 2023. Dave Dombroski and co. made significant additions in free agency by signing star shortstop Trea Turner and bolstering their pitching with Taijuan Walker. The Phillies also acquired former Detroit Tigers closer Gregory Soto via trade.

The Philadelphia Phillies will determine Harrison's role in Spring Training. With Turner taking over duties at shortstop, Harrison should see most of his playing time at second base. The 13-year veteran provides versatility in his ability to play third base and shortstop as well. As he did during his one-year stint in Chicago, Harrison brings leadership and stability across the diamond.