The Phillies are set to benefit soon with the return of aces Zack Wheeler and Ranger Suárez to their rotation. The All-Star break came at an opportune time for the Philadelphia Phillies, who had been struggling with injuries and recent losses to the Oakland Athletics. The break allowed key players time to recover, and despite a tough loss on Friday, there is positive news regarding their starting pitchers.
Zack Wheeler and Ranger Suárez both experienced back pain before the All-Star break, preventing them from participating in the All-Star game despite being selected. Neither player is expected to be placed on the injured list, as the club has shared encouraging updates.
Manager Rob Thomson provided an update before the game in Pittsburgh on Friday. Both Wheeler and Suárez threw from 120 feet before the game. Suárez also completed a flat-ground session, though Wheeler has not yet reached that stage. Suárez threw on Wednesday and Thursday and reported feeling good, according to Alex Coffey of The Philadelphia Inquirer. The plan is to reintegrate both pitchers during the upcoming series against the Twins in Minnesota.
While injuries are never welcome, the timing allowed the Phillies to use the All-Star break for recovery. Wheeler missed his last start before the break, and while Suárez didn’t miss any starts, the team might consider limiting his innings in the second half. Suárez has previously pitched a maximum of 155 1/3 innings in a season and is already at 114 innings this year.
Suárez struggled before the break, giving up nine earned runs in his last two starts. His back issues might have started earlier or his workload could be affecting him. With some rest, he should be ready to perform well in the second half.
The return of Wheeler and Suárez will bolster the Phillies’ rotation. Pitching has been a strength for the team all season, largely due to these two pitchers. To maintain their health, the Phillies might use a six-man rotation in the latter part of the season. The effectiveness and health of their rotation are crucial as the team aims for a third consecutive postseason appearance.
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