The Philadelphia Phillies have encountered an unexpected hurdle this season as their prized $172 million pitcher is facing a longer recovery timeline due to an ankle injury that turned out to be more severe than originally anticipated.
Initially described as a minor setback, the injury has now been confirmed by team insiders to be “worse than expected,” raising concerns about how this will affect both the pitcher’s return to the mound and the Phillies’ rotation stability moving forward.
The pitcher, who signed a massive long-term contract in hopes of becoming a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s rotation, had shown early promise. However, the injury has thrown a wrench into those plans, with team doctors reportedly reassessing recovery protocols and considering extended rest or additional treatment options to ensure full rehabilitation.
A source close to the team noted, “It wasn’t something we wanted to hear. What looked like a standard sprain is turning out to be more complex. It’s not just about managing pain—it’s about making sure there’s no long-term risk.”
The timing couldn’t be more challenging. As the Phillies push through a competitive season, depth in the starting rotation becomes even more crucial. The team may need to rely on younger arms or explore trade options if the ace remains sidelined for an extended period.
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