The Philadelphia Phillies have encountered a significant setback just before the postseason as left-handed pitcher Jesús Luzardo was placed on the injured list Tuesday, following his withdrawal from a start three days earlier due to shoulder stiffness, the team confirmed. Although an MRI showed no structural damage, Luzardo is not recovering as well as expected. To replace him on the roster, the Phillies have called up lefty Kyle Backhus. Luzardo expressed his reluctance to pitch while not feeling at full strength, acknowledging the importance of this crucial time in the season and not wanting to let the team down by performing below his best.
By backdating Luzardo’s 15-day injured list period by three days, he could be eligible to return by next Saturday, September 26, though it remains uncertain if he will be ready for postseason play. Phillies manager Mattingly did not rule out Luzardo starting in the playoffs. The shoulder issue arose after Luzardo’s outstanding two-hit shutout against the Atlanta Braves last week, in which he struck out 12 batters over 109 pitches. Luzardo remains optimistic about being prepared for the playoffs but recognizes the challenge of regaining rhythm after time off the mound.
Currently, the Phillies are ahead by one game for the third wild-card spot and 3.5 games clear of a postseason berth. The Wild Card Series begins Tuesday, September 29, meaning Luzardo would face an extended gap between starts unless he pitches late in the regular season, or possibly serves as a reliever in the postseason. The Phillies boast a strong pitching rotation with Luzardo, Cristopher Sánchez, and Zack Wheeler forming an elite trio, while Aaron Nola has been performing well recently. Losing Luzardo as a starter would mark a significant drop-off. At 29 years old, Luzardo ranks sixth in WAR among pitchers and is in the first year of a five-year, $135 million extension.
Fan Take: Luzardo’s injury is a crucial storyline for Phillies fans and baseball enthusiasts because it impacts one of the sport’s most dominant pitching rotations. How the Phillies adapt to his absence could influence postseason outcomes and showcase the importance of depth and resilience in championship contention.
Source: www.cbssports.com
