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Phillies Face Rotation Questions as Ranger Suarez's Back Injury Persists

Manager Rob Thomson acknowledges Suarez may start the season on the injured list, with Taijuan Walker likely to step into the fifth starter role despite spring training struggles.

Ranger Suarez #55 of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts as he walks back to the dugout after being relieved against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the sixth inning in Game Three of the National League Championship Series at Chase Field on October 19, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona.
Mar 9, 2025; Clearwater, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Ranger Suárez (55) throws a pitch against the Baltimore Orioles in the second inning during spring trining at BayCare Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • Ranger Suarez is dealing with recurring back stiffness, the same issue that sidelined him for a month during the 2024 season.
  • Phillies manager Rob Thomson has indicated Suarez could begin the 2025 MLB season on the injured list, with further evaluations expected in the coming days.
  • If Suarez is unavailable, Taijuan Walker is expected to take over as the fifth starter, though his inconsistent spring training performance raises concerns.
  • Walker has struggled in spring training, allowing 10 runs and 19 hits across 13 innings, following a 2024 season where he posted a 7.10 ERA in limited appearances.
  • Suarez's potential absence is significant for the Phillies, as he was a key contributor in 2024 with a 12-8 record and a 3.46 ERA across 27 starts.