The Philadelphia Phillies did not have an overwhelming need to add a starting pitcher in free agency this offseason, despite Ranger Suárez being a free agent. A team can never have enough pitchers over the grind of a long season, though.
Rumors connected the Phillies to free agent pitcher Tatsuya Imai, despite their starting pitching being a strength. However, the Japanese pitcher agreed to a multi-year deal with the Houston Astros last week.
Cristopher Sánchez, Jesús Luzardo, Zack Wheeler, and Aaron Nola will be featured in the Phillies' rotation this season. Taijuan Walker will compete for a rotation spot in spring training.