Heading into the 2024 season, the Philadelphia Phillies’ starting rotation is under scrutiny as they gear up for spring training. With pitchers and catchers set to report to Clearwater, Florida in less than two weeks, the Phillies’ starting lineup remains largely unchanged, except for the significant re-signing of Aaron Nola to a lucrative seven-year, $172 million contract. The question now looms: Will Zack Wheeler follow suit with an extension?
The Phillies’ starting rotation boasts a formidable top with co-aces Wheeler and Nola leading the charge. However, beyond the dynamic duo, the rotation appears solid but unexceptional on paper, featuring Cristopher Sánchez, Taijuan Walker, and Ranger Suárez, who proved themselves as reliable options during the 2023 season. Barring unforeseen circumstances like injuries or new acquisitions, these five pitchers are expected to anchor the rotation throughout the upcoming season.
Let’s delve into the power rankings for the Phillies’ starting rotation heading into the new season.
Ranking at number five is Cristopher Sánchez. In the previous season, injuries plagued the rotation, leading to Sánchez stepping up to fill the void left by Ranger Suárez’s early stint on the injured list. Despite a somewhat unremarkable performance, Sánchez managed to secure the fifth spot in the rotation, a position he’s likely to retain barring significant changes or standout performances from prospects like Mick Abel or Griff McGarry during spring training.
Sánchez’s 2023 season was characterized by solidity rather than brilliance. In 19 games, including 18 starts, he posted a 3-5 record with a 3.44 ERA across 99 1/3 innings, striking out 96 batters with an average of 8.70 strikeouts per nine innings. While his fastball lacked consistent velocity, his changeup emerged as a potent weapon, limiting opposing batters to a mere .145 batting average and generating 55 strikeouts.
Looking ahead, Sánchez has room for growth and improvement as a starting pitcher in the major leagues. However, his position in the rotation remains precarious, contingent on factors like the emergence of young talent or potential signings in the free-agent market. Until then, Sánchez holds the fifth spot in the Phillies’ starting rotation power rankings.
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