Could the Philadelphia Phillies Be In Play for Framber Valdez?

The Philadelphia Phillies are still one big move away from truly establishing themselves as a World Series contender for the 2026 season, and there are multiple directions Dave Dombrowski and the front office could take to do so.

While the lineup could definitely use another right-handed hitter, and a veteran outfielder could be a nice addition, too, the Phillies have some concerns with their starting rotation depth, and their is still options on the open market to upgrade it. 

MLB Network’s Jon Morosi believes Philadelphia could be a potential landing spot for the top remaining starting pitcher on the free agent market: Framber Valdez.

“I would also say this, we have not heard a ton about the team that Ranger Suarez left as being a possible landing spot for Framber Valdez,” said Morosi.

“When you look at the Phillies’ depth chart for pitching, there's a spot there where you could certainly see a veteran sliding in. So I would say, let's not close off the possibility of Framber to the Phillies quite yet.”

The Phillies could definitely use some more depth in their rotation, especially after, as Morosi mentions, Ranger Suarez departing to the American League East. 

Right now, Aaron Nola, Cristopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, Taijuan Walker, and probably Andrew Painter will be the Opening Day starting rotation, assuming Zack Wheeler isn’t healthy for the start of the season.

If the Phillies could sign Valdez, he would immediately slide in towards the top of their rotation. In 2025, the left-hander logged a 3.66 ERA and a 1.24 WHIP over 31 starts (192 innings pitched). If Philadelphia is indeed interested in Valdez, they’ll certainly have competition for the former Cy Young candidate.

Morosi also mentioned the Baltimore Orioles and New York Mets as teams in need of more pitching and possible landing spots for the free agent.

Losing out on Bo Bichette and watching Suarez leave have been tough blows for the Phillies. However, if they can convince Valdez to come to Philly, the front office can at least say they did something to shake up the roster and, hopefully, improve it heading into the 2026 season. 

Phillies Roundtable also offers a fan community and message board. We’d love to have you join us to talk all things Phillies. Click the “Join” button at the top of the page to join our community for free.