Phillies Secure Jesús Luzardo’s Future with $135 Million Extension

PHILADELPHIA — Jesús Luzardo has found a stable home in Philadelphia, securing his future with the Phillies through a five-year, $135 million contract extension that begins in 2027. The deal, announced Tuesday, also includes a 2032 team option, providing long-term security for both the left-handed pitcher and the organization.

“I think this came at the perfect time for me,” Luzardo said during a news conference at the Phillies’ ballpark in Clearwater, Florida. CBS News

A Cornerstone of the Phillies’ Rotation

The Phillies have demonstrated a commitment to building a formidable pitching staff, and Luzardo’s extension is the latest example. Philadelphia has already secured long-term deals with Cristopher Sánchez ($22.5 million, four years through 2028), Zack Wheeler ($126 million through 2027), and Aaron Nola ($172 million, seven years through 2030). MLB.com Rookie Andrew Painter is also expected to contend for a rotation spot.

Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski emphasized the importance of investing in pitching. “It gives you a lot of comfort when you know you go forward with those types of individuals,” Dombrowski said. CBS News

Luzardo’s Impact and Performance

Acquired from Miami ahead of the 2025 season, Luzardo quickly became a key contributor to the Phillies’ success. In 2025, he went 15-7 with a 3.92 ERA in 183 2/3 innings, tying for second in the National League with 216 strikeouts and finishing seventh in NL Cy Young Award voting. AP News

Luzardo agreed to an $11 million, one-year contract in January to avoid arbitration, entering the 2026 season just shy of qualifying for free agency.

Avoiding Free Agency

Had Luzardo reached free agency after the 2026 season, he likely would have commanded an even larger contract on the open market. However, he expressed a strong desire to remain with the Phillies, citing the coaching staff, the organization’s winning culture, and his family’s adaptation to the city. CBS News

“We didn’t really want to test it out ourselves,” Dombrowski said. CBS News

Phillies’ Offseason Moves

The Phillies have been active this offseason, extending manager Rob Thomson through 2027 and signing Kyle Schwarber to a $150 million, five-year deal and J.T. Realmuto to a $45 million, three-year contract. They also saw Ranger Suárez depart in free agency, signing with Boston for $130 million over five years. AP News