Phillies rotation concerns mount as starter exits with shoulder soreness

The Philadelphia Phillies have had the best starting rotation in Major League Baseball since the start of the season. But sometimes, even the best have champagne problems.

The fifth slot in the rotation has been the only bugaboo for the Phillies all season, and the problem only seems to be growing. Taijuan Walker already went to the injured list on Sunday and now, his replacement may be on the way to joining him.

Spencer Turnbull, who had been enjoying a career resurgence with the Phillies in 2024, left the game Wednesday after pitching just three innings. The team informed the attending media that Turnbull's exit was due to right shoulder soreness.

It's an ill-timed injury for Turnbull, who was not only getting an opportunity to earn a spot in the rotation long-term but had a 3-1 lead to work with against his former team, the Detroit Tigers. On the season, Turnbull is 3-0 with a 2.65 ERA in 54.1 innings.

With Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Ranger Suárez and Cristopher Sánchez all dealing, the Phillies have a set top four, which is more than most contending teams have the luxury to say. But to get through the remainder of the season, at least one more starter will have to step up.

Though Philadelphia could roll into October with the four pitchers above as their playoff starters, it would not have been a surprise, even before Turnbull's injury, to see general manager Dave Dombrowski add one more rotation option via trade. Now, that possibility only increases.

There's no reason to rush a decision, as the Phillies have yet to find out if Turnbull will need an IL stint. But Wednesday could wind up being a pivotal moment in the season if it affects the team's aggression at the trade deadline.

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