The Phillies are quietly stacking their starting pitching depth—and they didn’t need a big-name signing to do it. Enter top veteran, a 28-year-old right-hander with a forgettable MLB resume… but a delivery that could make hitters’ heads spin. The Phillies inked him to a minor-league deal, giving fans a hint that they’re thinking ahead for injuries, the World Baseball Classic, and a long spring training grind.
2025 Was Brutal—But That Could Be a Hidden Opportunity
Gillispie’s numbers last season scream “rough year”: six starts for the Marlins, 0-3 record, 8.65 ERA. He even faced the Phillies in April and allowed four runs over five innings. He bounced to Triple-A, then got claimed by the Twins, where he made eight more appearances before hitting free agency. Not exactly eye-popping—but that low-velocity fastball paired with a sharp slider and a quirky delivery makes him a potential X-factor. Could a new environment unlock something unexpected? Phillies fans will be watching.
Spring Training Rotation Is Dangerously Thin
The Phillies’ rotation depth is fragile: Cristopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, Aaron Nola, Andrew Painter, and Taijuan Walker form the Opening Day core, with Zack Wheeler returning in April or May. After that, options are scarce. The only pitchers with MLB starting experience in camp are Bryse Wilson and Tucker Davidson. That’s it.
Young arms like Jean Cabrera, Alan Rangel, Yoniel Curet, and Alex McFarlane are waiting in the wings—but none are guaranteed to make an immediate impact. With 30 Grapefruit League games ahead and Sanchez absent for the WBC, the Phillies need every arm they can get.
Why the Big Veterans Passed on Philly
Names like Jose Quintana, German Marquez, Griffin Canning, and Walker Buehler hit free agency, signing deals ranging from $1 million to $6 million. Bassitt and Gallen even landed massive one-year deals. Why didn’t Philly get in the mix? Simply put: veterans want guaranteed innings, and the Phillies can’t promise a full-season starting role.
But that’s where strategy comes in. If Painter locks down a spot, Wheeler returns early, and the rotation stays healthy, Philly won’t need another big-name veteran. But if injuries strike, a savvy minor-league arm like Gillispie could become an unexpected savior.
The Phillies Are Quietly Preparing for Anything
Before Opening Day against the Texas Rangers on March 26, the Phillies still have options. Some pitchers could be released from other teams’ camps, creating openings. In a season where every inning matters, a low-risk addition like Gillispie could turn into one of the most underrated offseason moves in Philadelphia.
Fans should pay attention—sometimes the quiet moves are the ones that make the biggest noise.