🎙️ Voice is AI-generated. Inconsistencies may occur.
The Philadelphia Phillies are sitting behind the New York Mets in the standings with the trade deadline looming large.
Though the Phillies have one of the best records in Major League Baseball so far, it’s clear that there are some weaknesses to address. The team seems to be in need of an outfield upgrade as free agent acquisition Max Kepler struggles. And they are in need of a new closer without any true shutdown options currently in the bullpen.
One area of strength, though, is the starting rotation. With the likes of Zack Wheeler, Cristopher Sanchez and Jesus Luzardo on the staff, the Phillies have plenty of options to start playoff games. But with several younger options waiting in the wings, one MLB writer wonders if they’ll soon see Ranger Suarez depart for a hated rival in free agency.
“The Phillies are about to transition into a slightly younger pitching staff, with Andrew Painter and Mick Abel both on the MLB fast track,” Christopher Kline wrote for FanSided. “That opens the door for Atlanta to be aggressive in pursuit of the 29-year-old. The Braves missed out on a Phillies staple a couple years ago in Aaron Nola. If that just means they get Suarez in 2026, the team will be better for it.”
Mandato/Getty
Though he has dealt with some injuries, Suarez has been excellent for the Phillies in the last few seasons. He enjoyed an All-Star nod last year and has been even better this year, with a 2.59 ERA in 15 starts so far.
But with several effective arms in the rotation and some potential rookies looking to debut, the Phillies might not be willing to invest a significant long-term contract in keeping Suarez. As a result, he could take a better deal elsewhere, including from a Braves team that will be looking to reset after a disappointing season.
“Suarez has made it clear he wants to re-sign in Philadelphia, which would make it all the more sweet for Braves fans if Atlanta can lure him to the southeast,” Kline added.
Phillies fans can be grateful that their rotation has so many options, but losing Suarez to the Braves would still be a tough adjustment.
More MLB: Why Red Sox Should Believe In Kristian Campbell’s Resurgence