The Philadelphia Phillies have built a championship-level roster over the past few seasons.
But, each year there are a few key players that can make or break a team’s season.
Last season the Phillies got contributions from players all over their roster.
They will need that again in 2023.
Here are the two starting pitchers that will make or break the Phillies’ season.
Ranger Suarez
Coming into next season, Ranger Suarez is expected to be the Phillies’ number three starter.
He will once again be counted on to log heavy innings.
Last season, Suarez threw 155.1 innings with a 3.65 ERA and 129 strikeouts.
The lefty has never been a big strikeout pitcher, but he still gets hitters out at a high rate.
Something else that makes Suarez unique is his elite defense.
He is one of the best fielding pitchers in baseball and that is always a bonus.
Suarez showed up in the postseason and pitched well as a starter and out of the bullpen.
His 1.23 postseason ERA was a big reason for the team’s success.
Taijuan Walker
The newest addition to the Phillies’ starting rotation is Taijuan Walker.
The Phillies signed him from their rival, the New York Mets.
He should once again be a solid middle-of-the-rotation starter like he was in New York.
Walker was 12-5 last season, with a 3.49 ERA in 157.1 innings.
Like Suarez, he pitches to contact, only recording 132 strikeouts.
The Phillies gave Walker a massive contract, so they are counting on him to produce.
His four-year, $72 million contract is rare for a fourth starter.
The @Phillies are signing RHP Taijuan Walker to a 4-year, $72M contract.
per @ByRobertMurray and @JonHeyman pic.twitter.com/WJZpvPVRmF
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) December 7, 2022
But, the Phillies must feel good about his long-term outlook.
For playoff baseball to be back in Philadelphia, these two starters must play a key role in 2023.
