The Philadelphia Phillies are making some adjustments after Top star exited his April 22 start early against the New York Mets with left forearm soreness. Thankfully, the team believes there’s no structural damage, chalking it up to general body soreness. To be cautious, Sánchez’s next start — originally set for April 29 against the Nationals — has been pushed back. Zack Wheeler will take the mound instead, while Sánchez is expected to throw a bullpen session on Sunday in Chicago.
Brandon Marsh Making Strides in Rehab Assignment
Outfielder Brandon Marsh continues his comeback after landing on the 10-day injured list (retroactive to April 17) with a right hamstring strain. Marsh tweaked his knee during an April 16 game against the Giants, prompting his brief absence. Now with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, Marsh is slowly finding his rhythm, picking up two hits in his first nine at-bats. Manager Rob Thomson hinted that Marsh might stay a few extra days in Triple-A to sharpen his swing before rejoining the big-league club.
Ranger Suárez Nearing Return from Back Stiffness
The Phillies rotation could soon receive another boost, with lefty Ranger Suárez working his way back from low back stiffness. After being sidelined earlier this month, Suárez has been on a rehab assignment and is slated to pitch again for Triple-A Lehigh Valley on April 27. This outing could very well be his final rehab appearance, giving the Phillies hope that he’ll slot back into the rotation just in time for the stretch run.
Top Prospect Andrew Painter Closing In on MLB Debut
Phillies fans have even more reason to be excited as top pitching prospect Andrew Painter inches closer to the majors. After undergoing Tommy John surgery last spring, Painter has looked sharp in Low-A Clearwater, tossing three scoreless innings in his latest start. The 21-year-old phenom struck out four without issuing a walk, and he’s scheduled to pitch again Thursday. Painter’s workload is being closely monitored, but if all goes to plan, he could make his long-awaited MLB debut as soon as July.