Phillies reliever going for a second opinion on forearm sounds ominous

The Philadelphia Phillies have had their fair share of injuries so far this season, with Trea Turner, Brandon Marsh, J.T. Realmuto and Taijuan Walker all requiring IL stints since the beginning of May. The recent returns of Turner and Marsh have helped the Phillies get back on track after a short losing streak in the middle of June, and the Phillies have since maintained an 8.0-game lead over the Atlanta Braves in the NL East.

No team is 100 percent healthy at this time of the season, and the Phillies are no exception. They have been forced to shake up the roster several times with key players being sidelined. While notable names will always grab headlines, it's easy to forget that the Phillies have been short a couple of bullpen arms following injuries to right-handers Luis Ortiz (left ankle) and Yunior Marte (right shoulder inflammation).

Both pitchers had been placed on rehab assignments with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, but a recent update on Ortiz's progress seems to have taken a troubling turn. A new injury has halted his current rehab, with concern shifting from his ankle to his right forearm.

Phillies reliever going for a second opinion on forearm sounds ominous

When the Phillies placed Ortiz on the IL after suffering a left ankle sprain on March 30, it was assumed that the 28-year-old would require some rest followed by some time ramping up activities in the minors.

According to a recent report, Ortiz suffered a right forearm strain during his rehab stint, causing his rehab to be put on hold. After returning to the mound, Ortiz was shut down a second time, and per MLB.com, is currently being evaluated to see if the injury is more serious than initially expected.

"Ortiz was recalled from his most recent rehab stint after experiencing discomfort in his forearm during his June 18 outing with Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Manager Rob Thomson said Ortiz is going to get a second opinion before the club decides on the next step for the right-hander."

It's a tough break for Ortiz, who appeared in 14 games out of the Phillies bullpen last season and seemed likely to get a chance to establish a role with the team this year after having a solid showing in spring training. While the Phillies await word on Ortiz's status, the team recently recalled right-handed pitcher Michael Mercado from Triple-A to take the place of Walker on the 26-man roster and fill a bullpen role.