The Philadelphia Phillies are set to get some much-needed reinforcements with pitchers Ranger Suárez, Taijuan Walker, and Spencer Turnbull all expected to return to the mound soon. With limited rotation spots available, the challenge becomes determining who will make way for these returning players.
The Phillies typically use a five-man rotation but occasionally switch to a six-man setup. Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and Cristopher Sánchez are confirmed as starters, and Suárez will reclaim his spot once he is healthy, leaving only one rotation spot open.
The Phillies are facing a difficult decision regarding the fifth spot in the rotation. Walker, who is under a $72 million contract, is expected to remain in the rotation despite his struggles since joining the team. This financial commitment likely means Turnbull, when healthy, will be moved to the bullpen.
Fans had previously advocated for Turnbull to remain in the rotation over Walker, and they might be frustrated by this decision. Turnbull will likely serve as a long reliever, providing depth and insurance for the rotation and bullpen.
The Phillies’ pitching staff has struggled since one of their aces, Ranger Suárez, was injured, with a 4.49 ERA ranking 15th in the MLB. Tyler Philips, filling in, has a high 7.65 ERA, although the Phillies have managed a 3-1 record in his starts.
Suárez’s return is crucial for Philadelphia’s playoff push, but he needs to improve on his performance before his injury. After a stellar start to the season with a 1.75 ERA over his first 15 games, Suárez’s performance declined significantly, with a 7.71 ERA in his last four starts before his injury.
With some rest, Suárez aims to regain his early-season form and provide a stabilizing presence for the Phillies’ pitching staff.
