Phillies Considering Adding Free Agent Pitcher

Philadelphia could sign a starting pitcher with spring training just two weeks away.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 3:39pm

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The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly "considering" signing a free agent starting pitcher as they head into spring training with a depleted rotation. The team lost Ranger Suarez in free agency and Zack Wheeler could miss the start of the season after offseason surgery, leaving them thin on proven starters behind ace Cristopher Sanchez.

Why it matters

The Phillies had one of the best rotations in MLB last season, but with key losses and injury concerns, they may need to add another proven arm to solidify their starting staff and defend their NL East division title.

The details

The Phillies currently have six starters on their 40-man roster, including Sanchez, Jesús Luzardo, Aaron Nola, Wheeler, Taijuan Walker and prospect Andrew Painter. However, the back end of the rotation and Painter's inexperience raise some questions. The team could pursue free agents like Framber Valdez, Zac Gallen or Chris Bassitt to add another quality starter.

  • Spring training begins in two weeks.

The players

Cristopher Sanchez

The Phillies' ace and NL Cy Young runner-up last season.

Zack Wheeler

The Phillies' starting pitcher who is recovering from offseason thoracic outlet syndrome surgery.

Framber Valdez

A top free agent starting pitcher still available on the market.

Zac Gallen

A free agent starter who is a bounce-back candidate after a poor 2025 season.

Chris Bassitt

A 37-year-old free agent starter who could provide a temporary fix for the Phillies' rotation.

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What they’re saying

“The Philadelphia Phillies are "considering" signing a starting pitcher with spring training just two weeks away.”

— Jon Heyman, Reporter (New York Post)

What’s next

The Phillies will need to decide whether to sign a free agent pitcher before the start of spring training in two weeks.

The takeaway

The Phillies' rotation depth has taken a hit this offseason, and they may need to add another proven starter to solidify their pitching staff and defend their NL East title in 2026.