Phillies starting rotation announcement is big news for Cristopher Sanchez and Andrew Painter

Phillies starting rotation announcement is big news for Cristopher Sanchez and Andrew Painter originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The Philadelphia Phillies are entering the 2026 MLB season with a very different starting rotation than in years past.

While there are some familiar faces, their roles will not be the same as they were a year ago. Ranger Suarez is no longer on the team, as he signed with the Boston Red Sox on a big free agent deal. Zack Wheeler is also not a part of the rotation to begin the year, as he's recovering from thoracic outlet syndrome and won't be in the rotation for a while.

However, the Phillies' official starting rotation for the 2026 season, according to Rob Thomson, as Matt Gelb of The Athletic shared, is some big news for Cristopher Sanchez and for Andrew Painter. Phillies' official starting rotation is big news for Sanchez and Painter "Phillies will go Sanchez, Nola, Luzardo, Walker, Painter to begin the season," Gelb reported Friday afternoon. Less than a week until MLB Opening Day, the Phillies' starting rotation is set.

First, Sanchez will be the Opening Day starter, rewarding the Cy Young-caliber lefty with his first Opening Day starting job, thanks in part to Wheeler's absence. Sliding in right behind him is Aaron Nola, looking to bounce back from a rough 2025 season. Third in line for the Phillies is Jesus Luzardo, fresh off a $135 million extension with the Phillies.