Trying to avoid a season-ending collapse that will likely mark the end of an era, the Philadelphia Phillies are leaving no stone unturned ahead of their decisive final game of the regular season on Sunday. The Phillies have activated Jesús Luzardo from IL, and designated Jose Urquidy to make room on the roster.
When the Phillies last saw Luzardo pitch, things were going in a much different direction. He had tossed a complete game shutout against the Atlanta Braves on September 7, striking out 12 along the way. Philadelphia was looking like not only a lock to secure a NL Wild Card spot, but a legitimate threat for the World Series.
Well, a scratched start and shoulder discomfort later, things have taken a dramatic turn for the Phillies. Today was the first day that Luzardo was eligible to return from the IL, and while previous thinking was that Philadelphia would push his return until the playoffs, they no longer have that luxury.
Facing the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday, the situation is simple for the Phillies: win and in. If they lose, then their fate is in the hands of the Arizona Diamondbacks. If the Diamondbacks defeat the San Diego Padres on Sunday after a Phils loss, Arizona clinches the lone remaining playoff spot in the National League. If not, the Phillies will have backed their way into the playoffs.
Phillies' September collapse has derailed their ideal playoff rotation
The Phillies were forced to start Aaron Nola on short rest on Saturday in a move that backfired immediately in the first inning. For Sunday's game, Zack Wheeler is set to take the mound and likely will be given the longest leash possible, considering he's one of the remaining pitchers that gives the Phillies the best chance to win.
If Wheeler struggles, or even if not, it would seem that there's a strong chance that Luzardo is part of today's pitching plans. After all, the Phillies' bullpen has been a weakness for most of the season, likely forcing their hand by making Luzardo available today.
Of course, even if the Phillies do avoid a collapse and reach the playoffs, their ideal playoff rotation has been thrown into chaos, considering the circumstances that have surrounded their weekend. Cristopher Sánchez started on Friday, and with Wheeler - and potentially Luzardo - pitching on Sunday, Philadelphia is left without a clearGame 1 starter for Tuesday's game against the Atlanta Braves.
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