Phillies Linked to Move for Former First-Round Pitcher

The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly eyeing a former first‑round pick to bolster their pitching depth heading into the offseason. Sources say the team’s current five‑man rotation—Cristopher Sánchez, Jesús Luzardo, Zack Wheeler, Andrew Painter, and Aaron Nola—remains one of the strongest in the league, yet there is still a perceived need for additional starting arms.

NBC Sports Philadelphia’s Cole Weintraub highlighted Erick Fed de as a potential target. Fed de, a 33‑year‑old right‑hander, finished 2026 with the Chicago White Sox, appearing in 33 games and starting 15. He posted a 3.83 ERA over 141 innings, striking out 99 and allowing 139 hits. Although his recent performance has dipped compared to his 2024 season—when he logged a 3.30 ERA in 31 starts with the White Sox before a trade to the St. Louis Cardinals—his track record suggests he could provide valuable depth.

The Phillies’ president, Dave Dombrowski, has openly stated that the club plans to add more pitching talent this winter. Fed de’s versatility could also serve the Phillies’ bullpen needs; he has experience as a long reliever and could fill that role if required.

Fed de was originally drafted 18th overall by the Washington Nationals in 2014 but never fully met expectations. After six seasons with the Nationals (5.41 ERA across 102 appearances), he spent a year in Korea before returning to MLB in 2024. His 2025 stint across three teams—Cardinals, Braves, and Brewers—yielded a 5.49 ERA.

If Philadelphia moves forward with the acquisition, the hope is that the pitcher the team saw in 2024 will return, rather than the less effective versions seen in recent seasons.

Source: Phillies Linked to Move for Former First-Round Pitcher