According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Philadelphia Phillies are considering trading for a starting pitcher. This comes as the team will likely move to a six-man rotation during August. In recent weeks, adding a starter has become an emerging need for the team. Morosi did note that Taijuan Walker is expected to return in August. Walker has been on the injured list since June 23. In addition, it is anticipated that Spencer Turnbull will return near the end of August. Turnbull has been on the injured list since June 27. Having as much starting pitching depth as possible is beneficial for a team planning to make a run in October. Also, remember how the Phillies used Zach Eflin during the 2022 postseason.
Even with Tyler Phillips having success, trading for a starting pitcher would not be the worst thing. Ranger Suárez is on track to pitch the most innings he has in a major league season. Turnbull is likely to see an innings limit. Walker has not been great this season. In the last 30 days, the Phillies pitching staff as a whole has a 4.81 ERA, which is tied with the New York Yankees for the fifth worst in that span. It would not be surprising to see the Phillies trade for a relief pitcher and a starting pitcher. In his report, Morosi named two starting pitchers that the Phillies may be interested in. Morosi did note that the Phillies are also considering additional trade options to upgrade the rotation.
Phillies Considering Trading For Starting Pitching
Garrett Crochet
The first player mentioned by Morosi is Chicago White Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet. The asking price will be high since Crochet does not become a free agent until 2027. It is also worth noting this is the first season Crochet has been a starting pitcher. In 2024, Crochet has pitched more innings than he did in his three prior big league seasons combined. Crochet missed the 2022 season due to injury. With that in mind, it would not be surprising if Crochet had an innings limit this season.
While the White Sox have struggled, Crochet has been having a good season. In 20 outings this season, Crochet has a 6-6 record with a 3.02 ERA and an AL-leading 150 strikeouts. Crochet also has a 136 ERA+ and an AL-leading 2.35 FIP. Crochet leads the majors with a 12.6 SO9 rate. This season, Crochet was named an all-star for the first time in his career. Crochet has an impressive 6.52 strikeout-to-walk ratio this season. Opposing batters have a .569 OPS against Crochet this season.
Jack Flaherty
The other player mentioned by Morosi is Detroit Tigers pitcher Jack Flaherty. The trade cost for Flaherty will be lower because he is scheduled to be a free agent this offseason. Flaherty has primarily been a starter while also making occasional relief appearances. In the regular season, Flaherty has made six relief appearances. Meanwhile, in the postseason, Flaherty has pitched out of the bullpen once. Flaherty has made at least one regular-season relief appearance in the last three seasons.
Flaherty has been a key player in the Tigers, being in contention for a wild card spot. In 17 outings this season, Flaherty has a 7-5 record with a 3.13 ERA and 127 strikeouts. Additionally, Flaherty has a 133 ERA+ and a 3.16 FIP this season. Flaherty has a very good 7.47 strikeout-to-walk ratio this season, which would be a career-best. Opposing batters have a .640 OPS against Flaherty this season. Flaherty is on track to have a career-best FIP and WHIP and a career-best BB9 and SO9 ratio this season.
Main Photo Credits: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
