The 2024 season for the Philadelphia Phillies was filled with highs and lows. After finishing the second-best record in the National League, there were many positives to take away despite the disappointing postseason exit. This team has had much of the same core for years, consistently pushing for success, and 2024 was no exception.
The Phillies boasted a strong lineup, an impressive starting rotation, and a solid bullpen. However, postseason inconsistencies ultimately led to their elimination, and they fell short of the championship aspirations many had for them.
Even though the team couldn’t cross the finish line, several individual performances stood out, especially on the mound. The Phillies saw exceptional contributions from their pitching staff throughout the regular season. Let’s learn the standout pitchers who carried the Philadelphia Phillies in 2024.
Zack Wheeler
Without a doubt, Zack Wheeler was the Phillies’ best pitcher in 2024. Not only did he dominate on the mound for Philadelphia, but he also cemented himself as one of the top pitchers in all of baseball.
Wheeler ended the season with a stellar 17-6 record, a 2.89 ERA, and a league-leading 227 strikeouts. These numbers show his dominance and consistency throughout the season, making him a legitimate National League Cy Young Award contender.
Wheeler’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations is what sets him apart. The Phillies often relied on him to deliver in key matchups, and more often than not, Wheeler rose to the occasion. Whether he was facing a division rival or a team fighting for playoff contention, Wheeler delivered. His fastball remained electric, and his command of off-speed pitches kept hitters guessing all season long.
Though the National League Cy Young Award will be a close race between Wheeler and Atlanta’s Chris Sale, Wheeler’s performance in 2024 was arguably the best of his career. At 34 years old, he has shown no signs of slowing down. With his health intact and performance improving each year, Wheeler will continue to be the leader of the Phillies’ rotation for years to come. For those interested in how this impacts the team’s future, check out the Philadelphia Phillies odds on FanDuel Sportsbook to see where they stand heading into the next season.
Christopher Sanchez
While Nola has been a steady force, the rise of Christopher Sanchez was one of the more pleasant surprises for the Phillies this year. Sanchez, a young left-hander, had a breakout season that solidified his place in the rotation and hinted at his potential to be a key player for the team moving forward. He finished the season with an 11-9 record, a 3.32 ERA, and an impressive 3.00 FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching), which suggests his success was no fluke.
The 27-year-old showed a maturity on the mound that few expected this early in his career. Sanchez could mix his pitches effectively, keeping hitters off balance and inducing weak contact. This ability to evolve as a pitcher makes him so exciting for Phillies fans. As some older pitchers in the rotation age, Sanchez’s emergence provides hope that the team’s pitching staff will remain formidable.
The development of young pitchers can often be a roller coaster, but Sanchez has shown he has the tools to build on this success. As with any young player, challenges will likely be ahead, but his poise and performance this season suggest he’s ready for the long haul. The Phillies might have found a future star in their rotation who could carry the torch when the veterans begin to fade.
Aaron Nola
Aaron Nola continues to be a cornerstone of the Phillies’ pitching staff. A veteran right-hander, Nola has been a reliable presence for years, consistently taking the mound and delivering quality outings.
In 2024, Nola maintained his role as a dependable workhorse, finishing the season with a 14-8 record and a 3.57 ERA. More impressively, he threw over 180 innings for the fourth consecutive season, underscoring his durability and consistency in a league where staying healthy and effective is no small feat.
For a pitcher like Nola, it’s not just about the numbers—it’s the reliability he brings to the rotation. Every five days, the Phillies knew they could count on Nola to give them a chance to win.
He may not be the flashiest name in baseball, but his steady hand has been crucial to Philadelphia’s success. As he enters his early 30s, there’s little sign of him slowing down, and his experience will be vital as the Phillies continue to chase a World Series title in the coming seasons.
Nola’s presence at the top of the rotation is a luxury many teams would envy. His consistent pitching deep into games helps preserve the bullpen and gives the team a fighting chance every time he steps on the mound. With several years likely left in his career, Nola’s contributions should remain crucial to the Phillies’ plans.
Conclusion
The 2024 season may not have ended with a championship, but it certainly showcased the immense talent within the Phillies’ pitching staff. Aaron Nola, Christopher Sanchez, and Zack Wheeler all had standout seasons, and their contributions were a significant reason the Phillies were among the best teams in the National League. As the team looks ahead to 2025, these three pitchers will be integral to their success.
For Philadelphia fans, there’s a lot to be excited about. With Nola’s consistency, Sanchez’s breakout potential, and Wheeler’s continued dominance, the Phillies have the pieces to make another deep playoff run next season. If the rest of the team can step up when it matters most, this could finally be the year the Phillies get over the hump and bring a championship back to Philadelphia.
