Overview
- Interim manager Don Mattingly said Saturday that Luzardo was scratched after a touch‑and‑feel bullpen during which he had trouble getting loose.
- The Phillies will use an opener and a bullpen game for the scheduled start to avoid forcing Luzardo to pitch while his shoulder is stiff.
- Team messaging is cautious but optimistic because an MRI reported inflammation only and no structural damage, and the club does not plan an injured‑list stint at this time.
- Luzardo is expected to need only a few extra days of rest with the hope he can return to the rotation next week, though the club will monitor him closely for lingering symptoms.
- The timing strains a thin bullpen that had just been taxed in an 11‑inning loss and matters for Philadelphia’s playoff push because Luzardo has been a heavy‑usage ace who ranks among the team leaders in innings and pitches thrown.