The Philadelphia Phillies have locked in a key piece of their future by securing left-hander Jesús Luzardo with a five-year, $135 million contract extension. This deal, which kicks in for the 2027 season, cements Luzardo as one of the top-earning southpaws in the game.
Luzardo's extension is more than just a hefty paycheck; it's a statement of faith in his abilities and potential. The contract includes a $32.5 million team option and a unique incentive: a $2 million escalator for each year he finishes in the top five of Cy Young voting, maxing out at $42.5 million. This reflects the Phillies’ belief that Luzardo can be a perennial contender for pitching's highest honors.
At 28, Luzardo's annual average value (AAV) of $27 million places him among the elite left-handed pitchers in baseball. For context, Framber Valdez leads the pack with an AAV of $38.33 million, followed by Blake Snell and Garrett Crochet. Luzardo's deal ties him with Chris Sale, highlighting his status in this exclusive club.
Additionally, Luzardo's contract features a $1 million assignment bonus each time he's traded, up until he gains his 10-and-5 rights, which provide players with trade veto power after 10 years in the majors and five with the same team.
The southpaw is coming off a strong 2025 season where he posted a 15-7 record with a 3.92 ERA and an impressive 2.90 FIP. Over a career-high 183 2/3 innings in 32 starts, he maintained a solid 10.6 K/9, finishing seventh in the NL Cy Young voting. This performance undoubtedly played a significant role in the Phillies' decision to invest in his future.
In securing Luzardo, the Phillies not only bolster their rotation but also send a clear message to the rest of the league: they're building a formidable pitching staff with an eye on sustained success.