Breaking News: Phillies Confirm Horrible Injury to Two Stars

Taijuan Walker (right index finger inflammation)

Status: 15-day injured list

Walker is sidelined due to inflammation and a blister on his right index finger. RHP Michael Mercado has been called up to fill his spot on the roster. In his initial rehab outing on July 31 at Double-A Reading, Walker gave up four hits and three runs (two earned) over 2 2/3 innings. According to MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki, Walker is scheduled for a second rehab appearance on Tuesday, August 6, at Triple-A Lehigh Valley. If all goes well, Manager Rob Thomson anticipates Walker could start for the Phillies on August 11 in Arizona.

Ranger Suárez (low back soreness)
Status: 15-day injured list

Suárez was placed on the 15-day injured list on July 27, retroactive to July 24, due to low back soreness. Manager Rob Thomson mentioned that Suárez reported tightness in his left lower back but attempted to pitch through it during a bullpen session. The team opted for caution, giving him a break with hopes he can start during the Arizona series in August. Suárez, who missed the All-Star Game due to back spasms on his right side, is experiencing discomfort on his left side this time. The Phillies are hopeful this break will benefit him in the long run. Suárez is expected to throw on August 4 or 5, but he likely won’t return during the current road trip.

 

 

Spencer Turnbull (right lat strain)

Status: 15-day injured list, out 6-8 weeks

Turnbull is out until August with a right lat strain. He was removed from his start on June 26 after three innings due to right shoulder soreness. Despite his optimism, further testing revealed a more serious injury. Turnbull threw a 10-pitch bullpen on July 29. The Phillies plan to stretch him out as a starter, but he might return as a multi-inning reliever if needed before he is fully stretched out.

Dylan Covey (right shoulder strain)
Status: 60-day injured list
Covey started a rehab assignment with Single-A Clearwater on July 28.

 

 

Luis Ortiz (Tommy John surgery)

Status: 15-day injured list

Ortiz successfully underwent Tommy John surgery on July 11.

Andrew Painter (Tommy John surgery)

Status: Minor league 60-day injured list

The Phillies’ top prospect had Tommy John surgery on July 25, 2023. Painter is currently throwing 25-pitch bullpens twice a week, using only fastballs and changeups. Manager Thomson hasn’t ruled out the possibility of Painter pitching in simulated games before the year ends, but he is not expected to pitch for an affiliate in 2024.