Just after being acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates, Phillies pitcher Tyler Anderson is likely making his first start for Philadelphia on Thursday against the Nationals, according to Matt Gelb. Right after trading for Anderson, Phillies manager Joe Girardi stated that it’s possible that Philadelphia could use Spencer Howard in a relief role going forward, depending on how the deadline goes.

For Howard, he was on the mound last night and ran into some trouble in the fourth inning. Over 3.2 innings, Spencer allowed six hits, four earned runs, and zero walks with two strikeouts. During the fourth inning, Howard left the game with a blister. It’s always something with Spencer Howard, but one thing remains constant: his inability to get out of the fourth inning.

Vince Velasquez was expected to be the starter Thursday before acquiring Anderson, but that now looks doubtful. Vinny V has been embarrassing for the Phils, allowing 49 earned runs in just under 62 innings of work this season, leading to a 7.15 ERA. He has not made it out of the third inning in two of his last three starts.

Hopefully, Anderson can take over the 4 or 5 pitching slot well for the Phillies, who desperately need help going into a crucial stretch of their season. Several other names remain a possibility for the Phillies, including Craig Kimbrel, who reportedly has a hefty price tag alongside his teammate Ryan Tepera and Richard Rodriguez.

UPDATE: According to Jon Heyman, The Anderson trade to the Phillies has been delayed. The cause is uncertain.

Mandatory Credit: Matt Freed/Post-Gazette