The Philadelphia Phillies activated left-handed pitcher Ranger Suarez from the injured list Saturday. To make room on the 26-man roster, the club placed right-handed reliever Jose Ruiz on the injured list with a neck spasm.
The move occurred just before the Phillies' game against the Diamondbacks. Suarez is expected to make his season debut Sunday, according to an announcement earlier in the week. He missed two months due to a lower back injury sustained after his only spring training start.
Suarez made four rehabilitation starts, two each with Single A Clearwater and Triple A Lehigh Valley. During these appearances, he recorded 24 strikeouts, walked five batters, and posted a 1.08 ERA with a .175 opponents' batting average.
The activation of Ranger Suarez prompted adjustments to the pitching staff. The Phillies had limited flexibility on their 13-man pitching staff. Aaron Nola felt neck tightness before Saturday's game but pitched through it.
Taijuan Walker is moving to the bullpen following Suarez's return. Walker made six starts in April while Suarez was injured, posting a 2.54 ERA.
Walker adapted his repertoire during the offseason and regained some velocity. He demonstrated he can fill a rotation spot when needed. His transition to a relief role provides depth for the club.
Consideration for the roster spot had reportedly included Carlos Hernandez, a reliever picked up near Opening Day. Hernandez has struggled with a 6.92 ERA and command issues this season. Unlike Hernandez, relievers Orion Kerkering and Tanner Banks possess minor league options, offering flexibility.
The upcoming season is significant for the 29-year-old Suarez, who is eligible for free agency after the year. His performance last season included a strong first half followed by struggles after a back issue sidelined him for a month.
Suarez was 10-1 with a 1.75 ERA in his first 15 starts in 2024. Following his return from the injured list that summer, he posted a 6.54 ERA with an .885 opponents' OPS over his final 11 starts.
