In the latest baseball news, the Philadelphia Phillies have secured left-handed pitcher Cristopher Sanchez with a four-year contract extension, including club options for 2029 and 2030. This deal covers Sanchez’s remaining pre-arbitration and arbitration years, with potential to extend into his first two free-agent years. Financial details remain undisclosed, but he is currently playing on a one-year, $753,500 contract. As the Phillies extend Cristopher Sanchez, fans are happy that they will continue to see the pitcher stay in what seems to be a long-term strategy for the club.
Sanchez can most definitely help the Phillies maintain their momentum as one of the best performers in their division. If you look at your betting software, you will find the Phillies as consistent favorites in most lines.
Phillies Extend Cristopher Sanchez
At 27, Sanchez has become a valuable asset in the Phillies’ rotation. Since 2023, he’s made 32 starts and one relief appearance, posting a 3.21 ERA (131 ERA+) over 176 ⅔ innings, with 162 strikeouts and 40 unintentional walks. His 2024 season has seen a notable increase in his average fastball velocity, adding over 2 mph. Throughout his four-season MLB career, all with Philadelphia, Sanchez has maintained an impressive 112 ERA+.
Originally signed by the Rays in 2013, Sanchez joined the Phillies in a 2019 trade for Curtis Mead. He’s now an integral part of MLB’s top-performing rotation in 2024, which boasts a league-leading 3.02 ERA and includes standouts Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and Ranger Suarez.
From a minor league player, Sanchez has shown his potential as the Phillies have been giving him more time in the field. Not a lot of fans expected this much from Sanchez, so he was a welcome surprise for Phillies fans. But if you look at his numbers over the last few seasons, you will see how irreplaceable he is to the roster.
Phillies Make Smart Moves in Player Management
The Phillies currently lead the NL with a 49-26 record, holding a six-game advantage over the Braves in the NL East. This extension underscores the team’s commitment to maintaining their strong pitching core as they continue their successful 2024 campaign.
And those who want to open a baseball sportsbook still have the chance to do so. The MLB season may be ongoing, but there are still thousands of games that you can earn from. And with the Phillies locking in one of the best pitchers they have seen, make sure to keep an eye on them as they continue to lead the National League this season.