Overview
- Mick Abel struck out nine batters and allowed no walks over six scoreless innings in his MLB debut, tying a Phillies club record for strikeouts in a debut performance.
- Abel’s fastball velocity averaged 97.3 mph, showcasing improved command and poise after a challenging 2024 Triple-A season.
- The Phillies informed Abel before his debut that he would return to Triple-A following the game, with Taijuan Walker set to fill Aaron Nola’s rotation spot during his injury absence.
- The game marked a dramatic 1-0 pitchers' duel, with Abel outdueling Pirates ace Paul Skenes, who pitched a complete game with nine strikeouts of his own.
- Earlier in the day, MLB announced an 80-game suspension for Phillies reliever José Alvarado following a positive PED test, sidelining him until mid-August and for the postseason.