Why Phillies might have a difficult time re-signing Luis Arraez in free agency

The Philadelphia Phillies are likely going to be interested in re-signing Luis Arraez to a long-term extension after trading for him in the middle of the season.

While he might not be a home run hitter, and he's not been great for the Phillies since the mid-season trade, the concept of Arraez on this roster long-term is appealing. He's clearly helped Bryce Harper, and that's enough justification to keep him.

However, Arraez will be a free agent after this season is over. CBS Sports' Matt Snyder believes Arraez has played well enough to improve his stock this offseason, which could make re-signing him a bit tricky for the Phillies.

Why Luis Arraez could be tricky to re-sign for Phillies

Snyder named Arraez as one of the "Five free agents who have helped themselves" this season. He provided some insight into why Arraez's stock is up this year: "The main area where Arraez has improved his stock has been on the defensive side."

Arraez has posted 3.2 bWAR this season between the Phillies and the San Francisco Giants. His defense is much improved, to the point where it's not a stretch to say he's been a great defender this season by a lot of advanced metrics.

His .316 batting average is the best in Major League Baseball, and his .781 OPS isn't bad either. Of course, he has a .727 OPS and a .293 average with the Phillies, which is a bit underwhelming, but he's still been a nice addition.

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Harper has been significantly more patient with Arraez in the lineup, which has led to his production being much better as of late. Arraez hasn't just helped the defense; he's helped Harper improve as well.

While it's been nice to have someone as good as Arraez on the team, it's led to a bit of a problem for the Phillies. Re-signing him this offseason might prove difficult.

There are sure to be plenty of teams showing interest in an elite contact-hitting, plus-defensive second baseman. The Phillies and Giants are likely to be involved, and there's bound to be other clubs showing interest as well.

Even though the Phillies might want to bring him back, that's easier said than done, thanks in part to the increased stock Arraez has built this year during a resurgent season to stardom.

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