Injury Update: Cristopher Sanchez won’t start on Tuesday, Phillies remain optimistic moving forward

For once, the Phillies might actually have a bit of good injury news during what’s otherwise been a miserable stretch of baseball.

Cristopher Sanchez, who left Tuesday night’s game against the Mets after just two innings with left forearm tightness, won’t be making his next scheduled start — but it sounds like the Phillies are breathing a little easier.

Injury Update: Cristopher Sánchez Feels ‘Normal’ Day After Forearm Scare

Cristopher Sanchez throwing up to 90 feet

Sanchez played catch up to 90 feet on Friday at Wrigley Field and flashed a thumbs-up walking off the field, giving the team a much-needed encouraging sign after the five-game losing streak they’re dragging around like luggage.

Phillies drop fifth straight as Cubs blank them 4-0 in Chicago

Phillies Rotation Plans Moving Forward:

Zack Wheeler is getting the ball Tuesday instead, sliding up in the rotation. Thanks to the Phillies’ built-in off days (Thursday and Monday), Wheeler will still pitch on regular rest — which is important, because if there’s one thing Wheeler hates, it’s having to wait too long between starts.

After Wheeler, the rotation is still a little bit TBD. The Phillies could run it out with Taijuan Walker, Jesus Luzardo, and Aaron Nola on normal rest to get through the week, with Sanchez ready to slot back in by Saturday if all continues to go well.

And there’s more rotation reinforcement coming:

Ranger Suarez will throw about 80 pitches Sunday in Triple-A for Lehigh Valley in what should be his final or second-to-last rehab outing. Thomson hinted that they might want Suarez to make one more start to get him stretched closer to 95 pitches, but either way, the Phillies are about a week or so away from getting him back.

Ranger Suárez looks ready to rejoin the Phillies Rotation after breezy Triple-A Rehab start

Meanwhile, on the Marsh front…

Brandon Marsh is progressing nicely from his mild hamstring strain. He played seven innings in center field Thursday with Lehigh Valley, was set to DH Friday, and could be back in the Phillies’ lineup as soon as Sunday — his first day eligible to come off the IL.

Do the Phillies want Brandon Marsh back? That’s the question we’ll have to monitor this week. The Phillies’ offense might still be swinging pool noodles, but at least the rotation and outfield depth are inching toward full strength. It’s a start…I guess.

Join The Chase