Injury News: Phillies Give Big Updates Regarding Ranger Suárez, Brandon Marsh Rehab, Cristopher Sánchez Return.

Ranger Suárez (Lower Back Stiffness)
Status: On the 15-day injured list; began rehab on April 10
Suárez is sidelined due to lower back stiffness, a recurring issue from last season. Taijuan Walker has stepped into the rotation during Suárez’s absence. He has completed four rehab starts in the minors and is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Wednesday at Citizens Bank Park. Manager Rob Thomson stated that this session will help determine whether Suárez needs another rehab start or is ready to return to the MLB rotation. He’s close to rejoining the team.

Brandon Marsh (Right Hamstring Strain)
Status: On the 10-day injured list, currently rehabbing with Triple-A Lehigh Valley
Marsh was placed on the IL retroactive to April 17 after tweaking his knee in a game against the Giants. Cal Stevenson was brought up from Triple-A to fill in. During his fourth rehab appearance on April 27, Marsh left the game after two at-bats due to hamstring cramping. He worked out on Tuesday and was scheduled to see a doctor. Pending medical clearance, he will continue his rehab assignment with the IronPigs.

Cristopher Sánchez (Left Forearm Soreness)
Status: Scheduled to start Wednesday
Sánchez exited his April 22 start against the Mets after two innings due to soreness in his left forearm. Fortunately, no serious damage was found. The soreness was attributed to general body fatigue. Thomson confirmed Sánchez will return to the mound Wednesday night, after throwing in the bullpen on Tuesday as preparation. Sánchez has reported feeling fine since the early exit.

Andrew Painter (Recovery from Tommy John Surgery)
Status: Assigned to Clearwater Threshers, targeting summer MLB debut
Top prospect Andrew Painter is expected to debut in the majors around July, according to Dave Dombrowski. He hasn’t pitched in a regular season game since spring 2023 due to elbow surgery. Painter remains with the Clearwater Threshers, contrary to earlier reports he might move to Triple-A. He’s set to pitch Thursday, aiming for four innings or 60 pitches.