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Rob Thomson Sends Eight-Word Message Amid Shaky Start From Phillies Rookie

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated Jun 11, 2025 5:30 PM ET

Philadelphia Phillies rookie Mick Abel had an incredible start to his MLB career, going six strong innings against the Pittsburgh Pirates while striking out nine batters in a pitching duel against Paul Skenes. However, his second start was a bit tougher against the Blue Jays, and his third appearance against the Chicago Cubs was even more worrisome.

But, after the game, Thomson still believes in Abel and shared his thoughts on his worst outing in his brief MLB career. Matt Gelb of The Athletic shared Thomson's comments postgame and what he saw from the Phillies' rookie in his third start.

"He kept his composure," Thomson said. "After (two) home runs, he struck the next guy out. That tells you a little bit something about him, you know? So I like the composure and the poise. He kept battling."

Thomson's comments are those of praise for Abel, despite his shaky outing. He only went four innings, and he gave up three runs, all solo home runs, but Abel got out of a massive jam in the fourth inning to keep it to a one-run game.

The comments from Thomson, that he liked Abel's poise and composure, aren't typically seen from rookies, especially amid such a shaky start.

But he stuck with it and impressed Thomson for not letting things get to him. Being able to stay composed amid the outing Abel was having is a great sign for the Phillies' rookie.

Abel's ERA now sits at 2.35, and he has 14 strikeouts through three starts. While those numbers aren't bad, they don't tell the whole story. His first start was dominant, his second start was good, but there was a clear dip in production. In his third start, Abel wasn't 100 percent in command, and he struggled all night.

The next start for Abel is scheduled to come against the Miami Marlins, a team that's struggled all year. It's a chance for Abel to get it right and put his shaky Cubs outing behind him.

Regardless, Thomson likes what he sees from Abel so far, not just from his debut, but from his third and worst outing of his brief MLB tenure. Abel's composure and poise earned the praise of Thomson, despite his poor outing.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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