Dallas Keuchel Rumors: Phillies 'Unwilling to Meet' SP's 5-Year Contract Request

The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly unwilling to offer free-agent pitcher Dallas Keuchel a five-year contract.

Jon Morosi of MLB Network reported the snag in negotiations, though he noted the Phillies are still actively pursuing Keuchel.

The two-time All-Star is one of the most coveted arms on the market but is coming off a relatively disappointing 2018. Keuchel went 12-11 with a 3.74 ERA and 1.31 WHIP, striking out just 153 batters in 204.2 innings.

Teams have become increasingly wary of giving out long-term contracts to pitchers, who double as the sport's most important and most fragile position. 

Keuchel spent extended stints on the disabled list in both 2016 and 2017 due to injuries. He has, however, avoided any major injuries to his elbow and shoulder—a promising sign for his long-term health.

The Phillies have been among the most active teams on the open market. They've been linked to both Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, and they already inked Andrew McCutchen to a three-year contract.

Philadelphia had one of the lowest payrolls in baseball last season and has an ownership group willing to spend following an 80-82 season.

Keuchel is going to get paid in a big way at some point this winter. It's just uncertain if he'll receive the lengthy contract.

A team could look to front-load a deal for Keuchel at a number higher than he'd get over a four- or five-year contract. That would allow a team to avoid any real long-term complications if the deal goes sour and get Keuchel the financial stability he desires.

That said, all it takes is one team or one contract to readjust the market, so it's not a surprise Keuchel is playing the waiting game.