Key Phillies lefty set for return

Suarez dominated in four starts, pitching to a 1.08 ERA with 24 strikeouts in 16.2 frames of work, signaling that he's healthy enough to face big league hitters again.

The lefty had been one of the more reliable arms in Philly's rotation in 2024 until injuries set him back following a dominant first half. The 29-year-old was named an All-Star for the first time after posting a 2.76 ERA across 114 innings and holding opponents to a .219 batting average. 

It was a different story for Suarez in the second half, though, as batters hit .311 when facing him, culminating in a 5.65 ERA in eight starts. 

Needless to say, the Phillies hope they get the 2024 first-half version of Suarez upon his return on Sunday. In nine career starts against the D-backs, Suarez has a 1-3 record with a 5.09 ERA and 32 strikeouts.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson said Wednesday that the club would likely carry a six-man rotation rather than move anyone to the bullpen. Both Suarez and Taijuan Walker have experience in relief. 

For now, though, Philadelphia will boast a starting six of Suarez, Walker, Zack Wheeler, Cristopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo and Aaron Nola, one of the best rotations in baseball.