As spring training approaches its final stretch, the Philadelphia Phillies are still exploring ways to reinforce their pitching staff ahead of the 2026 season. According to New York Post reporter Jon Heyman, the Philadelphia Phillies are adding another starting pitcher, a move that will prove crucial given the uncertainty surrounding the rotation.
The Phillies enter 2026 with notable holes to fill. Ranger Suárez departed in free agency, while ace Zack Wheeler may miss the start of the season after undergoing surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome in August 2025. That creates a sharp contrast from last year, when Philadelphia boasted one of the strongest rotations in baseball. The Phillies finished the season with a 3.53 team ERA, second best in Major League Baseball behind only the Texas Rangers.
So what does the rotation look like now? Philadelphia currently has six starting pitchers on its 40 man roster, a number that will likely be reduced to five by Opening Day. The group includes National League Cy Young runner up Cristopher Sánchez, Jesús Luzardo, All Star Aaron Nola, Wheeler, Taijuan Walker, and top prospect Andrew Painter, who was the organization’s number one prospect in 2025.
At the top, the Phillies still have plenty of firepower. Sánchez, Luzardo, and a healthy Wheeler give the rotation high end potential. However, questions remain about the back end. Walker and Nola both had inconsistent stretches, and Painter, while highly talented, has yet to prove himself at the major league level. That uncertainty is why adding another experienced starter could significantly stabilize the staff.
Several notable arms remain available on the free agent market. Framber Valdez stands out as the top option. The left hander has been among the most reliable pitchers in baseball in recent seasons and would strengthen an already solid group of southpaws if Philadelphia is willing to pay the price. More affordable alternatives also exist. Zac Gallen and Chris Bassitt are both still unsigned. Gallen is coming off a down year but has the track record of a frontline starter, making him an intriguing bounce back candidate. Bassitt, now 37, would be more of a short term solution, but he showed last season that he can still be effective with an ERA under 4.00.
If the Phillies do make a move for another starter, it could give them a decisive edge in the National League East. Strengthening the rotation would not only help them keep pace with the New York Mets, but also put Philadelphia in strong position to reach the postseason for a fifth consecutive year.