At the start of the season, the Philadelphia Phillies had high hopes for their pitching rotation. However, injuries and inconsistent performances have left them searching for answers as they approach the trade deadline.
Aaron Nola remains on the injured list, while Mick Abel has returned to Triple-A after a challenging stint in the majors. Andrew Painter, once considered a top prospect for an MLB debut this season, is still finding his form with Lehigh Valley.
Manager Rob Thomson confirmed that Taijuan Walker will make another start on Friday at Yankee Stadium. Walker returned to the rotation on July 8 against the Giants but struggled in his subsequent outing against the Angels at Citizens Bank Park.
“He’s battled,” Thomson said. “I feel for him for last year and all the stuff that he went through. And then this year, he’s done everything that we’ve asked him to do.”
Meanwhile, Abel delivered a strong performance for Lehigh Valley, allowing only two hits over six scoreless innings against Rochester. Despite this success, there are no immediate plans for his return to the big leagues.
“He was very good,” Thomson remarked about Abel’s recent outing. “We haven’t talked about him coming back, but it was very good.”
Painter’s progress is being closely monitored by managing partner John Middleton and president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski. Though initially targeted for a midseason debut, Painter’s arrival may be delayed further as he continues to refine his command.
“I think he’s just experiencing, as he’s gotten up into the higher ranks, it’s testing his command — and that’s good,” Middleton stated.
The Phillies face critical decisions as they near July 31st Trade Deadline. Abel could potentially be involved in trade discussions or recalled if needed in August. Nola might begin a rehab assignment soon with hopes of returning by mid-August.
Until these scenarios unfold or Painter finds his stride, Walker will continue to fill the gap in Philadelphia’s rotation.
