The Philadelphia Phillies have the best record in the National League, but they are unlikely to keep idle at the MLB trade deadline. In fact, they intend to create a splash.
According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, the Phillies are attempting to upgrade their starting rotation before the deadline next week, and two huge names are being discussed. According to Morosi, Philadelphia is looking into trades for Chicago White Sox lefty Garrett Crochet and Detroit Tigers righty Jack Flaherty, among other options.
The Phillies already have a solid starting rotation. Zack Wheeler leads the way with a 10-4 record, 2.70 ERA, and 0.99 WHIP. Ranger Suarez and Aaron Nola provide capable backup. Nola is 11-4 with a 3.54 ERA and a 1.04 WHIP, whilst Suarez is 10-4 with a 2.87 ERA and a 1.06 WHIP. That triumvirate rivals any top three in the majors. They also have Cristopher Sanchez (7-5, 2.97 ERA, 1.24 WHIP). Wheeler (2.8), Suarez (2.8), Nola (1.9), and Sanchez (2.0) have produced a total of 9.5 WAR.
Clearly, Philadelphia wants more, as the team appears to be all in for this season. Crochet is the top reward. He’s 6-6 in 20 starts with a 3.02 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, and an MLB-high 150 strikeouts. He also leads all major league pitchers in fWAR (3.9) and is second in FIP (2.37). Crochet’s only concern is its usage. He has now thrown 42 1/3 more innings this season than at any other point in his career, dating back to college. He threw 65 innings as a sophomore at Tennessee, his previous career high. He only pitched 12 2/3 innings in 2023 after recovering from Tommy John surgery. Despite durability worries, acquiring Crochet would require a long haul, since he is under team control for two more seasons.
Flaherty is another good choice. He took a chance on himself by signing a one-year, $14 million contract with the Tigers, and it paid off. In 17 starts, he’s 7-5 with a 3.13 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 127 strikeouts to 17 walks in 100 2/3 innings. He had a 3.16 FIP and produced 2.3 fWAR. Flaherty has had durability difficulties throughout his career, but he threw 144.1 innings in 2023 and is projected to go much higher this season.
Both Flaherty and Crochet would require substantial prospect capital to acquire. Flaherty is a direct rental, so he’d be cheaper, but he’s still likely to command a high price considering his output.
The Phillies are aiming for it in 2024. It’s no surprise that they’re focusing on the top of the pitching market as the July 30 deadline approaches.
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