The Philadelphia Phillies are hit with an unexpected roster-related development as a familiar pitcher officially became a free agent, bringing an intriguing twist to a career that once began in Philadelphia. After a surprising decision by the Chicago Cubs, veteran right-hander Vince Velasquez is once again available on the open market, leaving many Phillies fans wondering what comes next for the former starter.
While the Phillies remain focused on strengthening their roster ahead of the August 3 MLB trade deadline, Velasquez’s latest career move has caught the attention of fans who remember his six seasons in Philadelphia. The veteran right-hander was designated for assignment by the Cubs over the weekend before deciding against accepting an outright assignment to Triple-A Iowa.
According to Anthony Franco of MLB Trade Rumors, Velasquez elected free agency instead of remaining in the Cubs organization.
“This is the second time Velasquez has elected free agency after being outrighted by the Cubs,” Franco wrote.
“He quickly re-signed last time on a minor league contract. That’ll probably be the case again. This is Velasquez’s first season with some MLB action in three years.”
The decision comes as the Cubs continue navigating a season in which injuries have taken a significant toll on their starting rotation. Despite those setbacks, Chicago has remained in the National League Wild Card race, although the club continues searching for reliable pitching depth.
Velasquez appeared in just two major league games for the Cubs this season, pitching a combined 3.1 innings. During that brief stint, he surrendered only one hit while recording one strikeout before being removed from the club’s 40-man roster.
Phillies fans are well acquainted with the veteran, who spent six seasons in Philadelphia from 2016 through 2021 after arriving in the organization with high expectations. Although Velasquez flashed impressive arm talent throughout his tenure, he struggled to consistently translate that potential into results, never posting an ERA lower than 4.85 during his time with the Phillies.
At 34 years old, Velasquez is now searching for another opportunity to extend his major league career. While Franco believes a reunion with the Cubs on another minor league contract remains the most likely outcome, another organization could decide to take a chance on the experienced right-hander as clubs continue looking for additional pitching depth during the second half of the season.