The seven-year, $245 million contract that Stephen Strasburg signed with the Washington Nationals on Monday provides additional context for why the Phillies lavished the third-largest free-agent deal in franchise history on Zack Wheeler.
Finding a shortstop or third baseman is the Phillies' 'main focus' at this week's winter meetings, and it could take them in several directions.
The decision for the Phillies to take the luxury-tax plunge really should be a no-brainer.
The free-agent pitching market has exploded, which helps to explain why the Phillies jumped last week at a deal with Zack Wheeler.
Adding an infielder and more pitching is the Phillies' focus at the winter meetings.
A source confirmed a USA Today report last week that the Phillies are pursuing free agent Anthony Rendon, but the competition will be tough for the All-Star third baseman.
As baseball's winter meetings begin Sunday night, the general manager will need to get creative to address the Phillies' remaining needs.
The Phillies are a better baseball team with free agent starter Zack Wheeler. But they are also an organization that desperately needs to develop talent.
Wheeler’s signing should be the lesser of the two major moves the Phillies make in an effort to improve the starting pitching department.
Wheeler, 29, is not Gerrit Cole or Stephen Strasburg - the two premier pitchers on the market - but he could develop into an elite arm.
Hamels had a 3.81 ERA last season with the Cubs, who acquired him before the 2018 trade deadline after the Phillies passed.
The 29-year-old right-hander could choose a team before the winter meetings begin next week, and the Phillies are among his most aggressive suitors.
