While the top priorities most MLB executives and fans alike have been talking about are how the Philadelphia Phillies can re-sign both Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto. However, the storyline many fans had hoped for has begun to emerge.
With Ranger Suárez still a top priority for the Phillies after their free agent bats, it seems The Athletic's Jim Bowden knows something most fans tracking the waiver wire might not.
According to Bowden, the Phillies are indeed trying to re-sign Suárez (subscription required). However, with the team trading for Jesús Luzardo last offseason, they have another young southpaw waiting in the wings for at least the 2026 season if Suárez's market becomes too big for the Phillies' payroll.
"The Phillies are trying to re-sign Suárez, 30, but also believe they have enough starting pitching in-house if they can't get a deal done with him," Bowden reports.
Phillies reunion with Ranger Suárez still on the table despite sky-high starting pitcher market
With Dylan Cease and the Toronto Blue Jays setting the bar for pitching contracts (subscription required), Suárez will get a big payday this offseason. And as most fans and Phillies teammates would agree, rightfully so.
The Venezuelan lefty has shown nothing but promise on the mound while in his tenure with the Phillies, despite his lower back issues. His stats speak for themselves. Suárez has had a 3.33 ERA over his last 53 starts, allowing just 2.31 BB/9 and with 8.65 K/9.
While most still expect Ranger to land elsewhere, other MLB executives have echoed Bowden's sentiments in thinking the homegrown southpaw will return to Philadelphia. He has been one of the most consistent pitchers the Phillies have had, especially in the postseason.
If the Phillies can somehow find the wherewithal to pony up the cash for the expected long-term deal that could reach up to $28 million per season, Suárez could stay with his "childhood club," as he put it. It could be full steam ahead for "Ranger Ragers" for years to come.
With several clubs such as the Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres, New York Mets, Los Angeles Angels, and Detroit Tigers all looking to add to their starting rotations, there is still always a chance Suárez goes somewhere else. However, the lefty with just 762 career innings on his arm proves that Caleb Cotham and the Phillies' pitching staff have taught him well.
It seems the student in Suárez has become the master, especially since hiring superstar sports agent Scott Boras. Regardless of whether Suárez ends up in Philadelphia again next season, this now seasoned pro deserves to cash out a major payday.