Overview
- The club projects Zack Wheeler to miss the start of 2026 after September thoracic outlet surgery, with returns discussed for April or May.
- Aaron Nola is coming off career-worst 2025 results, and evaluators are openly questioning whether he can rebound this season.
- Top prospect Andrew Painter struggled in the minors and slid in rankings, leaving his immediate readiness in doubt.
- Ranger Suárez’s free-agent departure to Boston removed a stabilizing arm, while Cristopher Sánchez and Jesús Luzardo headline the current locked-in starters.
- With a projected $316.4 million luxury-tax payroll, reports say the Phillies are likelier to pursue low-cost additions, and while Bleacher Report predicts a short-term Walker Buehler reunion, other available names include Lucas Giolito, José Quintana, Zack Littell, Aaron Civale, Chris Paddack and Frankie Montas.