*Before this article even begins to enter the logistics of this possibility, it should be noted that there have been no rumors regarding this trade. The Phillies have not publicly reached out to the Astros about McCullers. Meanwhile, the Astros have not publicly displayed any desire to trade McCullers. This article is entirely a “what-if.”*
The Phillies are in dire need for another starter. Aside from also needing to resign JT Realmuto and DiDi Gregorius, Philadelphia has to figure out their rotation. The top of their pitching staff is stacked, with Aaron Nola and Zack Wheeler.