The Philadelphia Phillies have spoken with Zack Wheeler’s agent about a new contract as the pitcher enters the final season of his $118 million, five-year contract.
Wheeler stated last week that he wanted to strike an agreement before the season begins on March 28.
“Zack would not mislead you. Of course, we chatted,” said Dave Dombrowski, president of operations, on Monday. “This is a priority. We’d want to complete that deal.”
Wheeler, a 33-year-old right-hander, makes $23.6 million this season. Last year, he went 13-6 with a 3.61 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP. His playoff ERA of 2.42 is sixth-best among pitchers who have made 10 or more starts.
“He’s a guy we would love to have in our organization for a long time,” stated Dombrowski.
Other Phillies moves.
The Phillies have had a quiet offseason aside from re-signing Nola to a new contract, but they have made some depth moves in the last week.
Philadelphia formally confirmed the signing of Whit Merrifield, a veteran utility player, on Monday. He agreed to a one-year contract with an option for 2025.
The Phillies designated right-handed pitcher Kaleb Ort for assignment to create place for Merrifield on the 40-man roster. Ort was eventually transferred to the Baltimore Orioles for cash.
Merrifield will wear No. 9 for the Phillies, becoming the first player to wear the number since Travis Jankowski in 2021.
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