First Look at the Phillies Rotation

With the first turn through the rotation nearly complete—minus Taijuan Walker—we’re starting to get a clearer picture of what the Phillies’ pitching staff looks like in 2025. While I have doubts about Walker, reports from Clearwater suggest he’s throwing much better than last season. And while Ranger Suárez’s persistent back issues have landed him on the IL, let’s assume he’ll slot in as the fifth starter upon his return, a position that is crucial for the team's overall performance.

How does the rotation look so far? It’s only been one start per pitcher, but let’s break down what we’ve seen from one of the better rotations in the league.

Zack Wheeler – Opening Day Starter

Wheeler was the obvious choice to take the mound on Opening Day, and he delivered. He struck out eight over six strong innings, allowing just two hits, one run (a solo homer by Keibert Ruiz), two walks, and one error. While he took a no-decision, his 1.50 ERA is an early sign of the dominance we’ve come to expect. If he keeps this up, there’s no reason he can’t be a serious NL Cy Young contender—or even take home the award.

Zack Wheeler on Opening Day, video from @phillies instagram

Jesús Luzardo – Promising Debut

Game 2 marked the Phillies debut of Luzardo, and he made an immediate impact. Over five innings, he allowed five hits and two runs while striking out an impressive 11 batters. He did surrender a homer (again to Ruiz) and had two walks and two errors, but overall, his performance was encouraging. If he continues to perform at this level, he could be a key piece in this rotation, significantly strengthening the team's pitching staff.

Graphic from @phillies instagram

Aaron Nola – A Shaky Start

Nola took the mound for the series finale in Washington, but it wasn’t his best day. In 5.1 innings, he gave up six hits, five runs, and two homers (to Phillies killer Josh Bell and Nathaniel Lowe). While he did strike out eight and didn’t allow a walk, his 8.44 ERA is definitely a concern. Hopefully, this was just a rough outing, and he’ll return to form as the season progresses.

Nola during Spring Training, photo from @phillies instagram

Cristopher Sánchez – Home Opener Star

Sánchez got the ball for the home opener against Colorado and didn’t disappoint. He pitched 5.1 innings, allowing four hits, one run (a homer by Hunter Goodman), two walks, and one error while striking out seven. With a 1.69 ERA, he showed real promise. If he keeps this up, he could emerge as a legitimate Cy Young candidate alongside Wheeler.

Final Thoughts

While it’s still early, the Phillies’ rotation has already shown flashes of dominance and areas for concern. Wheeler looks like an ace, Luzardo’s debut was encouraging, and Sánchez impressed in his home opener. Nola’s rough start raises questions, but there’s plenty of time for him to settle in. If this group stays healthy and performs to its potential, the Phillies could have one of the strongest rotations in the league.