Before signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Philadelphia Phillies were reportedly interested in Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Now that that decision has been made, the Phillies may be interested in signing someone else.
While they won’t be able to sign someone with Yamamoto’s talent, there are arms out there who can help Philadelphia.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Phillies are interested in starting pitchers Jordan Montgomery and Blake Snell.
“The Phillies made a real attempt for Yamamoto — their presentation drew praise — and, with a recent history of smart free-agency plays, remain in play to sign another top free-agent starter, including Montgomery and Snell.”
Snell, the Cy Young Award winner in 2023, could be just what the team needs heading into 2024
Philadelphia is in a great position, but after the Dodgers’ moves, they may try to make any move that will make their team better.
Snell had an ERA of 2.25, a WHIP of 1.19, and struck out 234 batters in 2023. Snell was concerned about the 99 walks, which were by far the most in his career. Allowing free bases is not usually a winning strategy.
Last year, the star lefty was constantly finding ways to get himself out of trouble. Based on his track record, he’s unlikely to walk that many batters again, but if he does, it’s difficult to imagine him preventing runs like he did in 2023.
Montgomery, a World Series champion in 2023, was instrumental in the Texas Rangers’ success last season. With the Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals, he had a 3.20 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 166 strikeouts in 188 2/3 innings.
Montgomery went 3-1 with a 2.90 ERA in 31 innings during the postseason.
Both of these players would be in the starting lineup alongside Aaron Nola and Zack Wheeler. This would give them one of the best rotations in the league, capable of competing with anyone in the league.
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