The Phillies came into this offseason with high hopes, but when the dust settled, one thing became clear: their starting rotation is walking into 2026 with more questions than answers.
Let’s start with the good. Jesús Luzardo and Cristopher Sánchez give Philadelphia a pair of reliable arms.
Luzardo brings electric stuff from the left side, and Sánchez took a leap last season, showing he can be more than just a back-end guy. Taijuan Walker?
He's a durable innings-eater, and there's value in that, especially when the rest of the rotation is anything but stable.
But beyond that trio, the Phillies are entering a season where their once-formidable rotation suddenly feels fragile. Three names-Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and Andrew Painter-will define just how far this team can go. And right now, each comes with a giant question mark.
Let’s talk Wheeler. When healthy, he’s one of the best right-handers in the game, a true ace with postseason pedigree.
But staying healthy is the key phrase here. Injuries have become a growing concern, and if he can’t take the mound consistently or pitch at the level we’ve come to expect, the Phillies’ rotation takes a serious hit.
Then there’s Andrew Painter, the rookie phenom with sky-high potential. Phillies fans have been waiting for his arrival, and the talent is undeniable.
But Painter is coming off injury himself, and expecting a young arm to immediately deliver in a high-pressure environment is a tall ask. If he’s healthy and effective, he could be a game-changer.
If not, the rotation depth gets thin in a hurry.
And finally, Aaron Nola. The longtime Phillie had a rough 2025, arguably the worst season of his career.
Injuries played a role, but the inconsistency was glaring. For a pitcher the team is heavily invested in, both financially and emotionally, a bounce-back year isn’t just important-it’s essential.
If Nola can return to form, the rotation stabilizes. If he can’t, the Phillies may find themselves leaning too heavily on unproven arms or scrambling for midseason help.
It’s worth noting the rotation has already taken a hit with Ranger Suárez now in Boston. That loss stings, especially given the uncertainty surrounding the rest of the staff. Suárez was a steady presence, and his departure only adds pressure to the remaining arms.
The Phillies had one of the top rotations in baseball last season. But heading into 2026, that strength could quickly turn into a liability if things don’t break their way.
They’re banking on health, rebounds, and potential. That’s a risky formula for a team with postseason aspirations.
If Wheeler and Painter can stay healthy, and if Nola finds his groove again, this group could still be dangerous. But that’s a lot of “ifs” for a team looking to contend in a loaded National League.