Phillies' Ranger Suarez to Start 2025 Season on Injured List with Back Soreness

The team is cautiously optimistic about his recovery, aiming for a potential return in April as Taijuan Walker steps into the rotation.

Ranger Suarez, a key pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, will open the 2025 MLB season on the injured list due to recurring lower back soreness.
Suarez experienced back tightness after pitching in an intrasquad game on March 16 and missed a scheduled start on March 21.
Testing confirmed the need for a cautious recovery approach, with the team's management hopeful for his return next month if no further setbacks occur.
Taijuan Walker has been named the fifth starter in Suarez's absence, providing depth to the Phillies' rotation.
Suarez concluded the 2024 season with a 12-8 record and a 3.46 ERA despite previous injury interruptions, underlining his importance to the team's pitching staff.