Phillies All-Star pitcher is dealing with a left shoulder impingement that caused inflammation and a bone bruise. According to Phillies manager Rob Thompson, Matt Strahm is feeling better and will be re-evaluated on Saturday, as reported by MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki.
Strahm has made just two appearances this spring, totaling 1 2/3 innings. He struggled in both outings, giving up three hits, three walks, and six earned runs, including a home run. His velocity was noticeably lower, raising concerns about the severity of the injury.
The Phillies are being cautious with Strahm to ensure he is fully healthy for the regular season, as they will rely on him to be a key part of their revamped bullpen.
Turner Breaks Out in Win Over Braves
Phillies shortstop Trea Turner has had a slow start at the plate this spring, entering Thursday’s game with just one hit in 17 at-bats and seven strikeouts over seven games. However, he showed signs of breaking out against the Braves.
Turner opened the game with a solo home run to left field and later added two more RBIs with a sacrifice fly and a groundout, finishing the day with three runs batted in.
The Phillies are considering a lineup shuffle for the 2025 season, with Turner likely to take over the leadoff spot from Kyle Schwarber.
Despite Nick Castellanos being out of the lineup, the Phillies’ batting order was productive on Thursday, going 9-for-25 with 14 RBIs and six extra-base hits, including four home runs.
Nick Castellanos not included
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According to Zolecki, Castellanos has been sidelined since Sunday and remained out of the lineup on Thursday due to illness. He did not make the trip to Fort Myers earlier in the week, and the Phillies were off on Wednesday.
The veteran right fielder has struggled at the plate this spring, posting a .143 batting average with nine strikeouts in 21 at-bats. Despite his slow start, the Phillies aren’t overly concerned, as Castellanos remains a key presence in the heart of their lineup.
Castellanos was one of the few Phillies hitters who ended the 2024 season on a high note, hitting .287/.345/.494 with an .839 OPS, 15 doubles, two triples, 10 home runs, and 39 RBI after the All-Star break. During the team’s brief playoff appearance, the 33-year-old continued to produce, batting .412 with a 1.059 OPS, a double, a home run, and three RBI.
As the Phillies aim for a World Series title this season, they will be counting on Castellanos to replicate his strong finish from last year.