The Philadelphia Phillies once again had success during the 2025 regular season. The Phillies finished the 2025 campaign with a 96-66 record and at the top of the National League East standings. However, the Phillies’ playoff run did not go the way they wanted it to, as they lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS in four games.
After losing to the Dodgers in the playoffs, the Phillies have responded by making some moves this winter. They most notably re-signed star slugger Kyle Schwarber to a five-year, $150 million contract. They also re-signed veteran catcher J.T. Realmuto on a three-year, $45 million deal.
The Phillies also brought in multiple new players like Brad Keller, Adolis Garcia, Jonathan Bowlan, and Kyle Backlus. However, when looking at their current roster, it is fair to argue that they should not be done making moves yet.
The Phillies could use another impactful starting pitcher as they look to have better postseason results in 2026. Due to this, they are now being linked to one of the top remaining free agent pitchers left on the market.
Phillies Predicted to Sign Free Agent Pitcher Max Scherzer
In a recent article for FanSided, Zachary Rotman predicted where each remaining top free agent would end up signing. Veteran pitcher Max Scherzer was discussed, which is understandable when noting that he is easily one of the best pitchers left on the free-agent market.
When it came to Scherzer, Rotman predicted that the Phillies would be the team that signs the eight-time All-Star.
“Max Scherzer has made it clear that he’d like to join a contending team with an opening in their rotation. He’s also willing to wait until after the season starts to latch onto the right situation. With that in mind, it’s tough to predict exactly when and where he’ll sign, but a team like the Philadelphia Phillies makes a lot of sense,” Rotman wrote.
Seeing the Phillies being viewed as a potential landing spot for Scherzer is not necessarily surprising. It is clear that they could use another starting pitcher, and Scherzer would have the potential to give them a nice boost if signed.
If the Phillies signed Scherzer, he would be a nice fit in the bottom half of their rotation. The 41-year-old pitcher is coming off a bit of a tough season with the Toronto Blue Jays, as he had a 5-5 record and a 5.19 ERA in 17 games. However, his past success could make him a bounce-back candidate worth considering for a team that needs pitching like the Phillies.
Scherzer Should Generate More Interest
While Scherzer has yet to land his next contract in free agency, that certainly should change. Teams looking for help in their rotation should have their eyes on Scherzer, as the free-agent market for starting pitchers has undoubtedly gotten smaller.
A few other teams besides the Phillies that could make sense as suitors for Scherzer include the Detroit Tigers, San Diego Padres, and Atlanta Braves.
Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see if the Phillies end up landing Scherzer from here.
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