The 2026 trade deadline is closing in, and the Philadelphia Phillies are trying to secure a deal soon. The Phillies are still on the hunt for a starting pitcher. The latest reports state the franchise is linked to Washington Nationals star Foster Griffin.
What Are the Philadelphia Phillies’ Chances with Foster Griffin?
The club reportedly sent a scout to Nationals Park to watch Griffin pitch. The left-handed pitcher will be an excellent addition in Philadelphia alongside Zack Wheeler, Jesus Luzardo, Cristopher Sanchez, and Aaron Nola. The Phillies need another strong pitcher as their fifth starter.
Despite calling up Brian Keller, it’s clear that they need another arm to help them in the playoffs. Nola’s struggles have been consistent, and Foster Griffin’s strong numbers will be a solid boost for the Phillies.
Can the Phillies Sign Foster Griffin?
Griffin will become an unrestricted free agent in 2027. He signed a one-year, $5.5 million contract with the Nationals. Even after agreeing to a base salary, Griffin has been incredible for the Nats. The pitcher holds a stunning 12-2 record with a 2.76 ERA.
The Nationals are well aware of Griffin’s value, and they are just one game behind the final Wild Card spot. Trading Foster Griffin will lessen their chances of fighting for a playoff berth. At the same time, there’s a strong chance of the team losing Griffin after he hits the free agent market.
The #Phillies and #Rays each sent a scout to watch #Nationals SP Foster Griffin’s start on Saturday, per @spencernusbaum_ pic.twitter.com/6YWghgsMFr
— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) July 26, 2026
The Phillies will need to strike a strong bargain with the Nats for Griffin. Washington will not trade him easily unless the Phillies offer something of equal value or more. It’s not easy for the Phillies to sign Griffin, especially with other teams in pursuit. The Tampa Bay Rays are also considering Griffin as a potential target.
The Phillies were not the only team to send their scouts to check on Griffin. The Rays had their scouts present at Nationals Park. The Nationals look at Griffin as a valuable trade chip. They will certainly talk to multiple teams and consider the best offer.
Nationals Will Still Try to Extend Foster Griffin
Extension talks between the Nationals and Griffin have reportedly stalled. Washington will not give up on Griffin easily. They will try to extend the pitcher for a long-term opportunity, but it’s not as easy as it seems. Excel Sports Management represents Griffin. The agency is also keen on allowing him to become a free agent and hit the open market.
From every angle, the Phillies seem to have tough competition ahead. While the franchise’s President of Baseball Operations, Dave Dombrowski, can work things out, time doesn’t seem to be on their side. Philadelphia has a few other options, but Foster Griffin will be the perfect pitcher to help the team dominate in the playoffs. MLB insider Jim Bowden believes that Griffin is a name to watch out for.
The latest on the Nationals from @JimBowdenGM…
• Zero chance James Wood gets traded
• Need to be overwhelmed to trade CJ Abrams
• Foster Griffin is a name to watch if they sell
• Haven’t decided on buying/selling pic.twitter.com/wbk99j5oaM— GM Territory (@GMTerritory) July 27, 2026
The Phillies must act fast if they want to sign Griffin. They need to propose a deal to the Nationals before other teams get ahead in the race. With less than a week remaining for the trade deadline, there’s no better opportunity for the Phillies to secure a deal with Foster Griffin.
Apart from Griffin, the club is also linked to a few outfielders as they seek to bolster their depth. The Phillies are still holding onto an NL Wild Card spot. After dropping their series to the Los Angeles Dodgers, they clearly need to bring in some extra firepower to the team.
Main Photo Credits: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
