The Philadelphia Phillies have one of the league’s most elite rotations, but considering how 2024 ended, a boost could be beneficial. Not much is expected to change regarding the Phillies’ rotation this winter, except Spencer Turnbull hitting the free-agent market for the first time in his career.

Perhaps the Phillies could make a historic signing to replace Turnbull, though, providing them with a no-doubt Hall of Fame candidate.

“The Atlanta Braves bought low on an aging Chris Sale last offseason hoping he could hold down the No. 5 starter job and he ended up winning National League Cy Young honors,” Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter wrote Wednesday when outlining his predictions for every team’s 2025 rotation. “The Phillies could take a similar approach with Max Scherzer, targeting him on a one-year deal and giving him a chance to pitch for a World Series contender in the twilight of his Hall of Fame career.”

Scherzer has posted a 215-111 record with a 3.16 ERA, 3391-to-752 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .220 batting average against and a 1.08 WHIP throughout his 17-season career. After enduring several injuries over the past few seasons, Scherzer is ready to give it another shot.

According to Spotrac, signing the three-time Cy Young recipient would cost the Phillies an estimated $15.3 million — not bad for a future hall of famer.

Even though Scherzer turns 41 years old next July, his pedigree speaks for itself. Not only would the Phillies gain an experienced veteran to guide them to a championship but they could also do so without committing to an expensive long-term deal. The two-time World Series champion knows a thing or two about pitching in the postseason.

With the Phillies perpetually falling short of winning a third title, perhaps they should consider reeling in Scherzer before someone else does.