The Philadelphia Phillies had a strong 2024 regular season, posting a 95-67 record to secure a competitive NL East title. Despite their NL Division Series exit, they head into the 2025 MLB season as a serious contender.
A strong starting rotation could be the Phillies’ greatest asset this season, with four former MLB All-Stars, including three from last year’s Midsummer Classic. The offseason addition of former top prospect Jesús Luzardo further bolsters the staff, forming a formidable five-man unit.
Expectations are high for Andrew Painter, the Phillies’ top prospect and a top-10 prospect in MLB. He is anticipated to make his big league debut this season, and if he stays healthy, the former first-round pick will likely earn a rotation spot, potentially displacing a current starter.
Ranger Suárez, a 2024 All-Star, might be the most expendable option. The left-hander will start the season on the injured list and is set to become a free agent after the year. While the Phillies have financial flexibility, they will need to address several roster spots next offseason.
A way to prepare for Suárez’s possible departure is by exploring trade options before the deadline—assuming he returns healthy and Painter is ready. The New York Yankees could be a logical trade partner.
Injuries have already impacted the Yankees’ rotation, as Gerrit Cole is out for the entire 2025 season, while Luis Gil and Clarke Schmidt will begin the year on the injured list.
With a middle-tier farm system, Philadelphia could benefit from adding more pitching depth. Meanwhile, eight of the Yankees’ top 12 prospects are pitchers, making a trade an enticing possibility.
Suárez finished last season with a 12-8 record, a 3.46 ERA, and 145 strikeouts over 150 2/3 innings. He is set to earn $8.8 million in his final year of team control.
