Jesus Luzardo, Phillies Reportedly Agree to Contract Extension, How Much Will LHP Get Paid?

Jesús Luzardo had a career year in the 2025 season. The Philadelphia Phillies responded by making sure he sticks around the City of Brotherly Love for the long haul.

According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Phillies and Luzardo agreed to a five-year contract extension worth $135 million on Monday that will begin in the 2027 season and keep him under contract through 2031.

Had Luzardo hit free agency following the 2026 season, as previously scheduled, he would have undoubtedly been one of the top players on the market assuming he comes close to replicating 2025's success.

Last season, the 28-year-old was 15-7 in 32 starts, posting a 3.92 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 216 strikeouts in 183.2 innings, setting career highs in strikeouts and innings. And he was fantastic in two playoff appearances (one start), posting a 2.35 ERA, 0.78 WHIP and eight strikeouts across 7.2 innings.

He also has an excellent mentor in long-time pitcher Max Scherzer.

"We have conversations," Scherzer told the Philadelphia Inquirer's Alex Coffey about his relationship with Luzardo. "How to train in the different months. How you train in December is different from how you train in February vs. March vs. April, August. Each month is kind of different on how you need to prepare for the season. So, it's a great way to compare notes with what goes on. I'm checking in with all the guys. And he's a good young arm. And he tends to listen. He wants to learn, and listen. I'm a fan."

By securing Luzardo to a long-term extension, the Phillies have the makings of a very strong rotation even when the 35-year-old Zack Wheeler retires (he's under contract through the 2027 season and has indicated he won't continue his career beyond that point, potential 2027 lockout pending).

Cristopher Sánchez has emerged as a bonafide ace in the past two seasons and is under contract through 2030. Prospect Andrew Painter is expected to crack the rotation this season and is only 22, though he remains unproven. Aaron Nola had a rough 2025 but is under contract through 2030 and the Phillies will be hoping he bounces back going forward.

Luzardo needs to build on his strong 2025 campaign, of course. But all indications are that he's in his prime and equipped to be one of the top lefty options in the sport. The Phillies are certainly paying him high-end money.