Could the Phillies really let their All-Star pitcher walk away? It’s a question that’s sending shockwaves through Philadelphia. While the Phillies boasted one of baseball’s most dominant starting rotations last season, a crucial piece of that success, Ranger Suárez, is now a coveted free agent, leaving fans wondering if he’ll stay or go.
Last year, the Phillies’ starting pitchers collectively achieved the second-best ERA in all of Major League Baseball, a testament to their strength and depth. Suárez, in particular, shone brightly, building upon previous success to establish himself as one of the most attractive pitching options available on the open market. Given the widespread interest he’s likely to generate, baseball analyst Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report has made a bold prediction: Suárez will be pitching for the Chicago Cubs in the years to come.
Reuter argues that even with the Cubs securing Shota Imanaga (despite a surprising qualifying offer acceptance) and bringing back Colin Rea on a one-year deal with an option for 2027, the team is still expected to be aggressive in pursuing top-tier starting pitching. “With a 52.0 percent career groundball rate, Ranger Suárez looks like the ideal target to pitch in front of a strong defensive infield anchored by Nico Hoerner and Dansby Swanson up the middle,” Reuter explained. In essence, Suárez’s pitching style, which induces ground balls, would perfectly complement the Cubs’ solid infield defense. The Cubs are also anticipating the return of Justin Steele sometime in 2026, although his availability for Opening Day remains uncertain.
Suárez’s stellar performance in 2024 earned him an All-Star selection, and his ERA last season was even more impressive. Over 26 starts, he maintained a 3.20 ERA and conceded a mere single run in his sole postseason appearance. But here’s where it gets controversial… Despite his undeniable value, the Phillies have a highly touted pitching prospect, Andrew Painter, waiting in the wings. This might make the Phillies hesitant to commit a substantial amount of money to Suárez, feeling confident in Painter’s potential to fill his role. Is it worth investing big money in a sure thing when you have a potential star already in your system?
Estimates from Spotrac suggest Suárez could command a six-year contract worth a staggering $161 million this winter. This would be a significant financial commitment, and the Phillies must weigh the cost against their other roster needs and the potential of their younger players. Should he land in Chicago, Suárez would be a fantastic addition to a Cubs rotation that is currently projected to include Cade Horton, Shota Imanaga, Matthew Boyd, and Justin Steele. This could potentially propel the Cubs into serious contention.
And this is the part most people miss… While Suárez’s groundball tendencies would play well at Wrigley, is he truly the missing piece for a Cubs team still finding its identity? Or would that money be better spent on offensive firepower? It’s a tough call.
What do you think? Would letting Suárez go be a mistake the Phillies will regret? Or is Andrew Painter the real deal, ready to step up and shine? And for Cubs fans, is Suárez the pitcher you believe will help bring a championship back to the North Side? Sound off in the comments below!