The Philadelphia Phillies are losing a few key players in free agency, though none have made their decision to sign with a team just yet. But, with the winter meetings right around the corner, a decision with a few players could be coming.
While a lot of attention is on Kyle Schwarber, one name that could wind up signing sooner rather than later is beloved lefty Ranger Suarez.
ESPN insider Jeff Passan revealed a key update for Suarez in free agency, which indicates that the left-hander could be the next free agent pitcher to sign this winter.
Phillies' Ranger Suarez receives key free agent update ahead of winter meetings
"Teams in the mix for Suarez believe he's the next big-time starter off the board." Passan writes, "Though the 30-year-old won't fetch a Dylan Cease-level deal, he long has been a target for Houston, which balks at deals beyond six years, and Baltimore, which is seeking a top-end rotation piece."
The Phillies have been rumored to be interested in retaining Suarez, but the most likely outcome is that the fan-favorite lefty departs for a new club in free agency.
That decision could be coming soon, as Passan's report indicates that Suarez is believed by teams around MLB to be the next frontline starter to sign a deal this winter.
More: Phillies predicted to replace Ranger Suarez with in-house righty
Dylan Cease's $210 million deal isn't what Suarez will land, but he could still wind up with a hefty contract that befits someone who's dominated with a 1.48 ERA in the postseason across 11 appearances and eight starts with the Phillies.
Losing Suarez will sting, but with Andrew Painter waiting in the wings and a strong rotation already, the Phillies can afford to let him walk.
Suarez's free agent decision could be coming to a head soon, as the left-hander is predicted by teams vying for his services that he will be the next "big-time" starting pitcher to sign a free agent deal this offseason.
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