Phillies Remove Starter From WBC With Forearm Tightness

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Ranger Suárez experienced forearm tightness during his start for Venezuela against the Houston Astros on Wednesday, leading him to withdraw from the World Baseball Classic.

While Suárez said he is not worried about the injury, he did not sound completely certain that he will be ready for the Phillies' Opening Day.

The Phillies brought back Ranger Suarez from the WBC because of left forearm tightness. He will receive treatment here. He will be pushed back a few days. They said they believe it is minor.

— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) March 10, 2023

The Phillies are optimistic that the injury is minor and will give Suárez a few days to rest and receive treatment before resuming activities.

Last season, Suárez posted a 3.65 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, and 129 strikeouts over 155.1 innings and 29 starts and is expected to have a similar workload in the upcoming season, barring injury. 

The 29 starts last season shattered his previous career high of 12.

The situation is being monitored closely, and the Phillies are hopeful that Suárez will be ready for the start of the regular season as he is a big part of their starting rotation.

The 27-year-old is entering his sixth major-league season. Photo Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports