Tommy Pham Plans Extended MLB Career
Tommy Pham, a free agent outfielder, is aiming for an extended MLB career. After a challenging start in 2025 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, he rebounded in the latter part of the season. Pham will celebrate his 38th birthday in March 2026 and is eager to continue playing major league baseball.
Career Milestones and Aspirations
Pham has set ambitious goals for himself. He hopes to achieve both 200 home runs and 200 stolen bases before he retires. Currently, he is 51 home runs and 69 stolen bases away from these milestones. Achieving these targets would solidify his legacy in the sport.
2025 Season Overview
- Finished 2025 with a batting line of .245/.330/.370.
- Performance ranked about six percent below league-average offense (wRC+).
- Notable improvement in the season’s final three months, hitting .278/.363/.468.
- Logged 10 home runs and 13 doubles during this stretch.
- Demonstrated an 11.7% walk rate and a reduced strikeout rate of 17%.
Despite a slow start, Pham’s second-half performance included an impressive average exit velocity of 92.7 mph and a hard-hit rate of 51.8%. His enhanced output could make him an attractive candidate for teams seeking outfield reinforcement.
Health Challenges and Recovery
Pham has dealt with plantar fasciitis since late 2023, which has affected his speed and base stealing ability. Over the past two seasons, he has only stolen 12 bases. However, he previously recorded 22 steals in 2023. Recently, he underwent stem cell treatment, which he believes will boost his mobility on the bases.
Market Insights
The upcoming free agency presents a limited market for right-handed outfielders. Teams like the Cleveland Guardians, Minnesota Twins, and Miami Marlins may seek to balance their left-heavy lineups with right-handed hitters, making Pham a valuable asset.
Unique MLB Journey
In 2025, Pham played for the tenth team in his major league career. While he is four teams shy of the record of 14 held by Rich Hill and Edwin Jackson, this journey reflects his adaptability in the league.
As Pham looks toward his future, he remains focused on attaining significant career milestones. He acknowledges the importance of these achievements for personal fulfillment, stating, “I could look back at my career, and me, personally, I can be proud of myself.”