Ranger Suárez, the Philadelphia Phillies pitcher, is awaiting news on whether he will make his second consecutive National League All-Star team. Despite missing the first part of the season due to a back injury, Suárez has shown impressive performance with an MLB-best 1.23 ERA in 11 starts since May 10. His recent outing against the Cincinnati Reds resulted in a 5-1 victory.
However, concerns have arisen regarding Suárez’s health as he left Saturday’s game after throwing only 80 pitches, marking a season low. Phillies manager Rob Thomson explained that this decision was intentional, noting that Suárez had made six starts in June and pitched over seven innings in his last five games.
Suárez’s velocity has been under scrutiny after it dropped significantly during his previous start against Atlanta. His sinker and four-seam fastball were both slower than usual. “My body wasn’t feeling 100 percent,” Suárez stated through an interpreter, attributing the pitch limit to shoulder and back discomfort.
Thomson remains unconcerned about these changes in velocity as long as Suárez continues to perform effectively. The pitcher will receive extra rest before his next start in San Diego ahead of the All-Star break.
Reflecting on his season so far, Suárez noted feeling generally good despite setbacks like those experienced in Atlanta. He emphasized the importance of maintaining health throughout the season rather than rushing to accumulate innings.
Last year’s experience saw him struggle with injuries and fatigue later in the season after pitching more innings by this point compared to this year. The Phillies aim to avoid repeating such issues given their reliance on strong starting pitching amidst an inconsistent offense and bullpen.
Zack Wheeler and Cristopher Sánchez are also performing well alongside Suárez, each potentially earning All-Star nods themselves. “When the season starts, one of the goals you have is to go to the All-Star Game,” said Suárez, expressing hope for selection while prioritizing finishing the season healthy.
