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Phillies' Ace Luzardo Lands on IL
16 Sep
Summary
- Jesus Luzardo placed on 15-day injured list for shoulder inflammation.
- The ace pitcher is eligible to return on Sept. 27, the season's final day.
- Luzardo's absence impacts Phillies' playoff contention.
The Philadelphia Phillies have placed their All-Star left-hander, Jesus Luzardo, on the 15-day injured list. This decision comes three days after he was scratched from a scheduled start due to left shoulder inflammation. The injury placement is retroactive to Saturday, with Luzardo becoming eligible to return on September 27th, which is the final day of the current regular season.
An MRI performed on Saturday revealed no serious issues with Luzardo's shoulder. He has not thrown on Sunday or Monday. Interim manager Don Mattingly stated that while medical personnel felt Luzardo was improving, his progress wasn't as advanced as desired. "Nothing's really changed as far as our thinking," Mattingly commented, emphasizing the need to ensure his health before pitching again.
Luzardo's absence is a considerable blow to the Phillies' playoff aspirations. Currently holding the second National League wild card spot, they are closely pursued by other teams. Luzardo has been a standout pitcher this season, boasting a 14-5 record with a 2.87 ERA and making his first All-Star appearance. He also leads the National League in strikeouts with 221. To fill his roster spot, the Phillies recalled right-hander Grant Holman from Triple-A Lehigh Valley.