Phillies rumors: Five non-tender candidates to sign in free agency

Drew Smyly

The 28-year-old never made an appearance for Seattle after the Rays traded him to the west coast in exchange for a prospect. Smyly injured his arm during the World Baseball Classic and underwent Tommy John surgery in June.

Recovering from the elbow injury likely pushes Smyly’s season debut up to the All-Star break, limiting his opportunity to contribute. If he’s able to bounce back it’s not a bad stash signing for the Phillies at the mid-point of the 2018 season.

In five seasons with Detroit and Tampa Bay Smyly has a 3.74 ERA in 156 games, 85 of which have been starts. He’s relatively young and should heal from the surgery fairly well. If he’s able to return in the summer he’ll be a potential trade candidate in August.