The Philadelphia Phillies have been working hard to stay competitive despite a string of injuries to their pitching staff, including Ranger Suárez, who has yet to pitch this season due to a back issue. The team got a brief scare when Aaron Nola experienced neck tightness before Saturday’s game, though he managed to take the mound, with Suárez available as an emergency option.
Fortunately, Suárez is now slated to make his season debut on Sunday afternoon at home against the Arizona Diamondbacks, a rematch of the 2023 NLCS, according to Corey Seidman of NBC Sports Philadelphia.
In a notable roster move, the Phillies have shifted Taijuan Walker to the bullpen. Walker has been solid in his six starts, posting a 2.54 ERA, and Seidman noted that with the ongoing wave of pitching injuries, he might still return to the rotation later.
Suárez, meanwhile, impressed during his four minor league rehab outings, earning the coaching staff’s trust to rejoin the rotation.
Despite some ups and downs, the Phillies are currently 19-14 early in the season. Following a strong 2024 campaign that saw them win the NL East before a quick playoff exit against the Mets, this year’s team has faced challenges—particularly with injuries, which isn’t surprising given the roster’s age.
Sunday’s series finale against the Diamondbacks starts at 2:05 PM ET, after which the Phillies will travel to Florida for a series with the Tampa Bay Rays beginning Tuesday night.