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MLB Insider Shares Prediction for Phillies Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Caleb Gebrewold | Last updated Mar 18, 2025 5:00 PM ET

The Philadelphia Phillies had a strong regular season in 2024, finishing 95-67 and winning a very tough NL East. They flamed out in the postseason, however, as they were bounced by the New York Mets in the NLDS.

Jim Bowden of The Athletic gave the Phillies a B grade for their offseason, which was highlighted by a trade to acquire Jesus Luzardo. The MLB insider predicted that Philadelphia will win the NL East, which figures to be very competitive, for the second consecutive year - and reach the postseason for the fourth year in a row.

He discussed the trade for the former top-ten prospect, writing:

Acquiring Jesús Luzardo from the Marlins gives them the division’s best and deepest rotation, per Jim Bowden of The Athletic

Bowden added that the free agent addition of reliever Jordan Romano is an under-the-radar move that should also be big for the Phillies, provided that he remains healthy. He noted, however, that the Phillies outfield could struggle offensively.

The MLB insider claimed that the development of Andrew Painter - who is a top-ten prospect entering the season - is a storyline to watch. Painter has not pitched in the Minor Leagues since 2022 as he recovered from Tommy John surgery.

While the Phillies have a stacked rotation - featuring Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Luzardo, Christopher Sanchez, and Ranger Suarez - it appears likely that the young right-hander will make his Major League debut sometime in 2025.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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