"All three hurlers are major league quality starters who figure to have the expectation of getting the opportunity to make a full slate of starts, health permitting. That's not something the Phillies can offer, given that any addition would come in behind at minimum Wheeler, Jesus Luzardo, Cristopher Sanchez, and on the team's depth chart."
"That theoretically leaves one spot open at the back of the rotation even when Wheeler is healthy, but the team has not made it a secret that they hope to give Andrew Painter a significant opportunity in the rotation this year, perhaps as soon as Opening Day. If the rest of the rotation is healthy and another regular was added to the mix, pushing Painter in would either force the club to go to a six-man rotation or demote someone to the bullpen."
The Phillies seek starting pitching depth to cover Zack Wheeler's expected injured list stint, but have declined to pursue top available starters. President Dave Dombrowski stated that Max Scherzer, Lucas Giolito, and Zack Littell are not fits for the team's needs. This reflects the Phillies' rotation depth, which includes Wheeler, Jesus Luzardo, Cristopher Sanchez, and prospects like Andrew Painter. The team cannot offer these established starters guaranteed regular starts, as they plan to develop Painter and maintain roster flexibility. Adding another regular starter would force either a six-man rotation or bullpen demotion, making these acquisitions impractical despite the team's pitching concerns.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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