Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Phillies are preparing for the start of the season with adjustments to their pitching lineup. Left-hander Ranger Suárez is anticipated to begin on the 15-day injured list due to a sore lower back, which has sidelined him since March 15. This move opens a spot in the rotation for right-hander Taijuan Walker.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson confirmed Suárez's status during a recent broadcast, stating, "We expect Ranger to go on the IL." The team hopes his absence will be brief, with potential activation as early as April 8 in Atlanta. "We want to take care of him," Thomson emphasized, noting that they don't want the injury to linger.

Walker is set to pitch against the Rockies on April 3 at Citizens Bank Park. Despite mixed results in spring training, his performance shows promise with an improved fastball and splitter.

In bullpen developments, right-hander Carlos Hernández was claimed off waivers from Kansas City. To accommodate Hernández on the roster, Tyler Phillips was designated for assignment. Thomson explained the decision: "We just think maybe there’s a little bit of an upgrade here."

Hernández brings experience but has struggled with consistency in major league play. His elite fastball averages 97.9 mph but has been hindered by a high walk rate over recent seasons.

The Phillies also face final roster decisions regarding bench spots as they prepare to head back to Philadelphia. Johan Rojas secured his position on the team, leaving Kody Clemens and Buddy Kennedy vying for one remaining spot.

On offense, no final lineup has been determined yet. Manager Thomson mentioned flexibility depending on opposing pitchers: "It could be, against a lefty, Turner leads off; against a righty, Schwarber leads off." The top four hitters are expected to include Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, and Alec Bohm.

"Hopefully we’ll find out soon," Thomson said about settling on a lineup strategy while acknowledging players' preferences for consistent batting positions.