Phillies could pursue predicted $40 million star expected to opt out

The Philadelphia Phillies have a chance to do something special this season.

Philadelphia currently has an eye-popping 88-58 record and seems like a team that is preparing to make a deep run in the playoffs. The Phillies haven't won a World Series since 2008 but they really seem to be knocking on the door.

Whether or not the Phillies win this year, they are expected to be among the best teams in baseball once again in 2025. It could make some sense to add a reinforcement or two to the starting rotation this winter, though, and one player who should be on the top of their wish list is Texas Rangers ace Nathan Eovaldi.

Eovaldi is a big-game pitcher and two-time World Series champion. He has shined this season with the Rangers and is predicted to opt out of his deal and enter free agency, according to CBS Sports' Mike Axisa.

"Contract situation: $20 million player option for 2025," Axisa said. "Technically, Eovaldi does not have this player option yet. He'll gain access to the player option when one of three conditions is met...Assuming Eovaldi throws those final four innings he needs to get the player option, he'll then have to decide whether to take the $20 million and remain with the Rangers next year, or give free agency another try with his 35th birthday coming up in February. He is a beloved teammate and a clutch performer, but he turns 35 soon and he has a long injury history. There's risk.

"Prediction: Eovaldi throws the four he needs to get the player option, then declines it, tests the free-agent waters, and ultimately returns to the Rangers on a new contract. Perhaps something like two years and $40 million with an option for a third year."

Eovaldi will be among the best pitchers in free agency, but likely won't be too expensive because of his age. If they could get him for $40 million, that would be a steal.

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