The Philadelphia Phillies are one of the better teams in the league right now, and they’ve already made their first big move of the offseason.
The Phillies re-signed Kyle Schwarber to a huge deal during the winter meetings. Their next move could be for another pitcher or two.
Just Baseball’s Ryan Finkelstein predicted the Phillies would add Texas Rangers veteran pitcher Tyler Mahle on a one-year, $18 million contract this offseason.
“Teams will be in on Mahle because of the upside he flashed in 2025, but it is very unlikely that he will receive a commitment that stretches beyond 2026,” Finkelstein wrote. “Instead, Mahle is likely to get a strong one-year deal, which he can use as his platform into free agency next year.
“The Philadelphia Phillies are set at the top of their rotation with Cristopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, and what they hope is a healthy return to the rotation for Zack Wheeler. Aaron Nola will look to bounce back, and they still have Taijuan Walker to eat innings.”
Mahle would be an upgrade over Taijuan Walker if the former Rangers righty can stay healthy.
This would allow the team to use Walker in a swingman role like he was used last season.
Mahle would be one of the best fifth starters in the entire league. At his best, he’s a shutdown righty with excellent swing and miss stuff. The Phillies would benefit quite a bit from adding him.
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