Report: Phillies Looking For Middle Rotation Starter Via Trade

Last season started with hope and belief for the young Phillies rotation. But, that hope and belief quickly turned just as the Phillies record and season turned. Struggles on the mound had fans once again calling for improvements to another struggling rotation.



On Wednesday, the Phillies made their first move of the offseason. A move that finally addressed their struggling rotation. Adding free agent pitcher Zach Wheeler.

Zach Wheeler signed a five year deal and gives the Phillies a very nice 1-2 punch with Aaron Nola for the foreseeable future. However, Wheeler may not be the only pitcher the Phillies are bringing in to improve their starting rotation this offseason.

According to reports, the Phillies are looking to acquire another starting pitcher via the trade market. A middle rotation starter, not a big name piece.




With Jake Arrieta almost assured a starting stop, the Phillies are still in need of two more starting pitchers. The likes of Zac Eflin, Vince Velasquez, & Nic Pivetta are internal candidates. But, with their struggles last season, the Phillies are looking for help elsewhere for at least one more starter. A starter that wont break the bank, but would be an upgrade over their internal candidates.

With Wheelers addition, about $23.6M, and other previous commitments, the Phillies are getting close to the luxury tax threshold. A threshold that many reports are suggesting the Phillies are trying to stay below. Therefore, a mid-tier starter may be the only option to add to the Phillies rotation.

Looking around the league, few guys fit the bill for what the Phillies are looking for. Presumably a starter with some control and a reasonable cap hit. But, most importantly, a starter that will eat innings.

Last season, Aaron Nola was the Phillies starter to eclipse 165 innings. Adding Wheeler gives the Phillies another starter who should be close to 200 innings next year. But, one more is needed.




To acquire someone like this may come at the cost of a current roster player. Some names to keep an eye on are Zac Efin, Adam Haseley, and Jean Segura. All three, with a prospect or two, should be able to net the Phillies what they are looking for, but also open up space on their roster elsewhere.

Eflin would be one for one in the rotation. Haseley is expandable being the platoon starter / 4th outfielder if Corey Dickerson is brought back. Jean Segura is the more interesting name to watch with the Phillies interest in fellow shortstop, Didi Gregerious.

Zach Wheeler was a great start to the Phillies offseason plans to improve the starting rotation. But, if they can find a #3 starter in the trade market, it is something they cant pass up. Especially in the “arms” race of the NL East.

The winter meetings start Monday. Should be a fun one for the Phillies.