Spencer Turnbull‘s role flexibility has enhanced his options in free agency. In 2024, Turnbull began the season in the Philadelphia Phillies’ rotation but eventually transitioned to the bullpen. This shift was largely driven by the injury status of Taijuan Walker, who started the season on the injured list. As a result, Turnbull filled the void in the rotation but moved to a long relief role upon Walker’s return. However, when Walker suffered another injury in June, Turnbull stepped in to fill the gap. Unfortunately, Turnbull suffered a season-ending injury on June 26 while filling in for Walker.
Despite the injury, Turnbull’s versatility would have been an asset in the postseason, had the Phillies advanced beyond the National League Division Series. In that scenario, Turnbull would have likely assumed a long relief role. Notably, the Phillies had no intention of returning Turnbull to the starting rotation as he neared his return from injury.
Spencer Turnbull’s Role Flexibility Enhances His Free Agent Profile
In 17 outings in 2024, Spencer Turnbull had a 3-0 record with a 2.65 ERA and a 3.85 FIP, recording 58 strikeouts. Seven of those outings were starts. Turnbull had a 26.1% strikeout rate and a 9.0% walk rate in 2024. Additionally, Turnbull had a 64 ERA- last season. Opposing batters had a .188 average against Turnbull in 2024. Turnbull recorded a 1.05 WHIP last season.
As a starter, Turnbull had a 1.78 ERA and a .146/.234/.276 line against. For comparison, as a reliever, Turnbull had a 4.26 ERA with a .257/.353/.405 line against. Turnbull had a better strikeout rate, walk rate, WHIP, and FIP as a starting pitcher in 2024. Teams will undoubtedly factor that into deciding how Turnbull might fit in with them. Turnbull has 11 career relief appearances and 67 career starts.
Potential Landing Spots
Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies’ pitching plans for 2025 may impact Spencer Turnbull’s chances of re-signing with the team. With top prospect Andrew Painter expected to make his major league debut in 2025, the Phillies’ rotation is likely to undergo some changes. Although Painter is expected to contribute significantly, he will likely be subject to an innings limit in 2025, given his age and developmental stage. This might suggest a need for additional starting pitching depth. However, it’s worth noting that the Phillies are not necessarily expected to pursue any high-profile free-agent starting pitchers during this offseason.
Instead, the team may opt to fill any gaps in the rotation from within, relying on their existing pool of young pitchers, including Painter, to step up and contribute. This approach could make it less likely for Turnbull to re-sign with the Phillies, as the team may not see a need for his services in the starting rotation.
New York Yankees
The Yankees have been mentioned as a potential landing spot for Spencer Turnbull, given their historical willingness to explore creative pitching roles and their ongoing quest for rotational depth. However, it’s essential to note that any team seeking to bolster their starting pitching or explore a hybrid starter-relief role could emerge as a potential suitor for Turnbull’s services.
As Turnbull navigates the free agent market, his ultimate destination remains uncertain. While the Yankees might represent a plausible fit, there are currently no concrete indications of specific teams expressing interest in signing him. The lack of clear signals about Turnbull’s market makes it challenging to predict where he will end up. As the offseason unfolds, it will be worth monitoring which teams demonstrate a genuine interest in acquiring Turnbull’s versatile pitching services.
Market Value and Projections
Spotrac projects Turnbull will receive a two-year deal with a $4.437 million average annual value. Turnbull made $2.000 million with the Phillies in 2024. The Spotrac projection has Turnbull ranked 76th among starting pitchers and 228th overall in market value. Turnbull is entering his age 32 season. 2019 is the lone season where Turnbull has pitched more than 57 innings. Turnbull missed the entire 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery. These will all be factors in the length and monetary value of the contract Turnbull receives this offseason. Role flexibility helps Turnbull potentially have more options in free agency.
If Turnbull has a desire to be a starter and not pitch out of the bullpen that would changes things for potential free agent suitors.
Main Photo: © John Geliebter-Imagn Images
