Phillies' Starting Pitcher Need: Who Could Help Them?
The Philadelphia Phillies, one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, are looking to bolster their starting pitcher corps. They're after a reliable arm that can help anchor their rotation for the upcoming season.
While the Phillies haven't been directly linked to any of the top remaining free agent starters, there are a few pitchers worth considering. These include lefty Framber Valdez, who has a qualifying offer attached to him and is reportedly seeking upwards of $30 million per year. Zack Gallen, another highly-touted right-hander, also received a qualifying offer, which may make him too pricey for the Phillies.
For the Phillies, it's not about finding a perfect fit but rather someone who can provide stability and depth at an affordable price point. Lucas Giolito, who made $19.3 million last season with the Red Sox, is worth considering after his solid 10-4 record and 3.26 ERA. Chris Bassitt, another seasoned veteran, could also be a viable option if he signs for a reasonable one-year deal.
However, Nick Martinez, a righty with a career 4.16 ERA, may offer the most value at $35 million per year. He's 35 years old but had three stellar seasons before taking a step back in 2025. The Phillies might be able to find a way to make him work without breaking the bank.
Two of the top pitchers who are unlikely to sign with the Phillies include Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer, both of whom will likely pitch into June if they're acquired by another contender. Aaron Civale is also not considered an upgrade over Walker and Zack Littell may be worth a look at $4-8 million.
For the Phillies, it's about having a deep and experienced rotation that can help carry their offense to success. With space to make a move and a history of bargain hunting, they're likely to find a reliable starter who won't break the bank.
The Philadelphia Phillies, one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, are looking to bolster their starting pitcher corps. They're after a reliable arm that can help anchor their rotation for the upcoming season.
While the Phillies haven't been directly linked to any of the top remaining free agent starters, there are a few pitchers worth considering. These include lefty Framber Valdez, who has a qualifying offer attached to him and is reportedly seeking upwards of $30 million per year. Zack Gallen, another highly-touted right-hander, also received a qualifying offer, which may make him too pricey for the Phillies.
For the Phillies, it's not about finding a perfect fit but rather someone who can provide stability and depth at an affordable price point. Lucas Giolito, who made $19.3 million last season with the Red Sox, is worth considering after his solid 10-4 record and 3.26 ERA. Chris Bassitt, another seasoned veteran, could also be a viable option if he signs for a reasonable one-year deal.
However, Nick Martinez, a righty with a career 4.16 ERA, may offer the most value at $35 million per year. He's 35 years old but had three stellar seasons before taking a step back in 2025. The Phillies might be able to find a way to make him work without breaking the bank.
Two of the top pitchers who are unlikely to sign with the Phillies include Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer, both of whom will likely pitch into June if they're acquired by another contender. Aaron Civale is also not considered an upgrade over Walker and Zack Littell may be worth a look at $4-8 million.
For the Phillies, it's about having a deep and experienced rotation that can help carry their offense to success. With space to make a move and a history of bargain hunting, they're likely to find a reliable starter who won't break the bank.
. He's already proven he can bring in 10 wins and has that sweet ERA under 4. If they can get him for less than $25 mil, I'd say it's a steal 
. Martinez is old but has been on fire lately, might be worth the risk too 
. But Verlander and Scherzer? No way, they're gonna cost an arm and a leg 
. The Phillies need someone who can come in and contribute without breaking the bank, that's key for 'em 
think giolito or bassitt wud b way more sensible tho 
anyway i guess the phillies have some decent options left but nick martinez might be their best shot at not blowing up their whole budget 
They've been through tough times in Philly, but that's what makes it special. I think Martinez would be awesome, he's like the underdog of pitchers! 
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! they need someone with some serious clout like Framber Valdez or Zack Gallen, but let's be real, those guys are gonna cost an arm and a leg 
. Nick Martinez too, he's 35 but still got some juice left in him 
. I'm not sure about Chris Bassitt though, maybe they can get him for like $5 million or something? 
and btw, who's gonna take the place of Justin Verlander on this team? 
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. However, it's unclear whether they'll be able to persuade Martinez or other top free agents to join the team without exceeding their budget constraints 
. Lucas Giolito seems like a solid option too, his numbers last season were impressive 
. He might be able to fill that one spot they need without breaking the bank 
. And honestly, who needs Verlander or Scherzer when you can get guys like Civale for less? 
. I know some fans are sad about Zack Gallen not coming, but I think the Phillies can find someone who'll bring just as much heat 
the key is finding someone who's gonna provide stability without draining all their cash reserves 
. Giolito and Bassitt could also work out well, they're not too expensive like Zack Gallen. The Phillies are trying to find someone with stability but it's all about finding that balance between value and price 
. They're not directly linked to any top free agents, but it's like they're trying to keep their options open for some reason. I mean, $30 million per year for Framber Valdez? That's a pretty penny!