The Philadelphia Phillies may not have one of the best relievers with them later this month when they open up the regular season against the Washington Nationals.
Matt Strahm Injury Update is Bad News for Phillies
According to Todd Zolecki of MLB.com, veteran reliever Matt Strahm has an impingement in his left shoulder that has caused inflammation. However, Strahm’s MRI revealed no structural damage, but he won’t throw down at Spring Training until at least Thursday, when the Phillies medical team can examine him.
Zolecki adds that Strahm said he can’t say if he’ll be ready by Opening Day, but wants to be smart about this.
On Sunday, MLB.com’s Paul Casella reported that Strahm has a “little bit of a sore shoulder.” The last time Strahm pitched was last week (Wednesday), but his velocity was down and he gave up four runs in ⅔ innings pitched.
According to Casella, Phillies manager Rob Thomson said the tests were clean and there’s no concern about the one-time All-Star.
The Phillies obviously hope that Strahm is just dealing with shoulder inflammation, as he’s been a key part of this bullpen over the last two seasons. Last season, the 33-year-old was one of the best relievers in baseball, as he was named an All-Star for the first time in his career.
Strahm had a stellar 6-2 record and 1.87 ERA in 66 appearances for the Phillies. The southpaw also tossed 79 strikeouts in 62.2 innings pitched and only gave up four home runs.
Right-handed hitters had a tough time against Strahm last season as they hit a pedestrian .133 at the plate, while left-handed hitters slugged .230.
Nonetheless, if Strahm were to miss any time to start the season, the Phillies are in good shape in the bullpen. They have Jordan Romano, who signed a one-year deal in the offseason, Orion Kerkering, Jose Ruiz, Tanner Banks, and Jose Alvarado.