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 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.

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