The Philadelphia Phillies' 2025 roster continues to take shape with new additions in the offseason. So far, relief pitcher Jordan Romano and outfielder Max Kepler have been the club's free-agent signings, while left-hander Jesus Luzardo is now part of the rotation after being acquired from the Miami Marlins.
Next season may be the final year for several players as members of the organization. The club is trying to win its first championship since 2008, and needs experienced players to help accomplish that goal. However, the Phillies could be moving on from some of their core players within the next year.
The franchise needs to gradually consider injecting some more youth into the roster within the next several seasons. Should they all not be included in trades, shortstop Aidan Miller, starting pitcher Andrew Painter, outfielder Justin Crawford, and catcher Eduardo Tait are all projected to be in the majors by 2028 or 2029.
Some of the more seasoned veterans are entering the final years of their contracts or have club options following next season. If any of these players do not do well or exhibit inconsistency, the Phillies front office may consider making some changes and begin to break up their veteran core.
Let's look at three Phillies who have one last chance to make an impact in 2025.
Ranger Suárez
Ranger Suárez is entering his final year of arbitration. Recently, the left-hander changed agents as he hired well-known agent Scott Boras. The starting pitcher's recent decision to hire the Boras Corporation likely means the 29-year-old will enter free agency next offseason, seeking a multi-year deal.
Suárez had an inconsistent season in 2024, as he performed like a Cy Young Award candidate during the first two months of the year. Before his start on June 30, the Pie de Cuesta, Venezuela native had a 1.83 ERA and a 0.92 WHIP in 16 appearances. After allowing zero earned runs in six of his starts before this date, he had only one start where he did this in his following 11 outings. He also missed time with back injuries on two IL stints.
Painter may debut with the Phillies during the 2025 season. If the prospect performs well, that would give the organization another starter in the rotation.
Even if Painter does not make his debut until 2026, the front office may decide to go with him as their fourth starter. Philadelphia could use a more affordable option in their rotation and let Suárez sign with another club next winter. His performance next year will dictate his value in free agency and whether the Phillies are interested in signing him to a multi-year contract.
Philadelphia acquired Luzardo in exchange for two of their top 30 ranked prospects: shortstop Starlyn Caba (No. 4) and outfielder Emaarion Boyd (No. 23). The addition to the rotation gives the Phillies another starter to lean on in 2026 should they lose Suárez in free agency next winter.