Philadelphia Phillies still looking to add more pitching depth?

The Philadelphia Phillies are looking at starters as well.

While continuing to poke around at relievers was the obvious part to the report, seeing that the Phillies are still looking at starters was both surprising, and encouraging!

The Phillies just recently agreed to a major league deal with the likes of free agent LHP Matt Moore, who many viewed as the team’s plan moving forward at their fifth starting pitching spot. While it’s not the worst of ideas, landing a more solidified veteran for that role – someone who actually pitched in the MLB in 2020 – would be preferred.

The Philadelphia Phillies were connected to the likes of Julio Teheran and Anibal Sanchez earlier this month, so that could still be a route the team goes. Former Phillie Cole Hamels remains a free agents as well, and is obviously a much coveted left-hander.

At the moment, the Phillies rotation is looking something like this:

Aaron Nola, Zack Wheeler, Zach Eflin, Spencer Howard, Matt Moore – and then Vince Velasquez as the spot starter should someone get injured.

With Howard likely to be on an “innings limit” in 2021 due to his age, I’m sure Dave Dombrowski would like to get to a position where Moore is in Velasquez’s role, and a more established veteran is in the rotation behind Howard. That way “Vinny Velo” doesn’t have to start significant games for the team this season.

Similar to the bullpen, I also wouldn’t rule out a last minute trade from Dombrowski. The Phillies have been linked to Astros RHP Lance McCullers Jr. as of late, and while that doesn’t seem to be really going anywhere, it shows the Phillies willingness to trade for an established starter.