Phillies surprisingly linked to 3.36 ERA Astros ace who'd replace Ranger Suarez

The Philadelphia Phillies have had an odd offseason. They brought back Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto while adding veterans Brad Keller and Adolis Garcia.

But, after missing out on Bo Bichette, there's a sour taste in fans' mouths, and another move would be a big help. And after losing Ranger Suarez to the Boston Red Sox, the Phillies could use another starter.

That's why MLB insider Jon Morosi linking the Phillies to a starter isn't a complete surprise, but the Phillies being tabbed as suitors for Framber Valdez, the Houston Astros lefty ace, is a surprising development. 

Phillies linked to Framber Valdez to replace Ranger Suarez

"I have not heard a ton about the team that Ranger Suarez left to be a possible landing spot for Framber Valdez," Morosi said. "When you look at the Phillies depth chart for pitching, there's a spot there. Let's not close off the possibility of Framber to the Phillies quite yet, either."

.@jonmorosi isn't ruling out the Phillies as a potential option for free agent LHP Framber Valdez... 🔔#MLBNHotStove pic.twitter.com/Bh8DTXqON4

This is an odd decision from the Phillies, if they do decide to sign Valdez. While he's not signed with a team just yet, the 32-year-old veteran lefty ace out of Houston is surely not going to be cheap.

Instead of spending tens of millions on Valdez, the Phillies could've just brought Suarez back on a free-agent deal.

The beloved lefty would've been welcomed back by the fanbase with open arms and helped alleviate the sting of losing Bichette to the New York Mets.

More: MLB Hot Stove tracker: Live updates on news, rumors, signings and trades for 2025 free agency

Valdez is a veteran starter who would be a nice addition in a vacuum. He has a career 3.36 ERA, has been an All-Star, and has a knack for some incredible performances in his career.

He did have some struggles this last season, with a 3.66 ERA on the year. But, even then, he's still a great option. But, he won't be cheap.

The Phillies don't have the financial freedom to sign someone like Valdez, barring the lefty taking a one-year deal. That doesn't seem likely, and even if he does, it still won't be cheap for the Phillies.

This report from Morosi is a confusing one, as the Phillies, while they could use another starter, shouldn't spend tens of millions of dollars on such a pitcher. Valdez would be a nice addition, but he doesn't make sense for the Phillies.

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