MLB Rumors: Mariners, Phillies Could Talk Trade For Pitcher

The Seattle Mariners sport a strong starting rotation coming into the 2023 season, making one former starter of theirs expendable. Once again this year, right-hander Chris Flexen is available for trade, as confirmed by MLB Insider Jon Heyman in the New York Post.

Despite having started 53 games in the past two seasons with the Mariners, with a solid 22-15 mark with a 3.66 ERA, Flexen is starting the 2023 season in the bullpen. The 28-year-old was on the trade block last season as well, but the Mariners weren't able to strike a deal. He'll be a free agent after the 2023 season, so the cost to acquire him in a trade this year shouldn't be that steep.

With a starting rotation of Luis Castillo, Robbie Ray, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby and Marco Gonzales, there's no room for Flexen at the moment. He'll be used in more of a bulk inning role out of the 'pen, or to give a starter an occasional rest. 

One team that's already looking for another starter seems to be the Philadelphia Phillies. They've been linked to a veteran pitcher who's had a disastrous couple of seasons, so perhaps they could turn their attention to a much more viable solution in Chris Flexen, to fill their need. This is one to keep an eye on. 

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