The Phillies have placed right-hander Zach Eflin on the 15-Day IL with a bruised right knee. Newly-acquired outfielder Óscar Marcado was added to the 26-man roster in a corresponding move.
Eflin has been hampered by knee issues throughout his career, as he underwent right patellar surgery late last season, and had procedures done on both knees six years ago. In spite of this, Eflin is hopeful he’ll only need the requisite 15 days to recover.
Eflin has been decent for the Phils this year, working to a 4.37 ERA. In his stead, the team will recall southpaw Bailey Falter from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to start Friday’s game against the Cardinals. Falter will likely get an additional start or two while Eflin is on the shelf.
This IL stint for Eflin is another setback for a beleaguered Phillies club, as reigning NL MVP Bryce Harper is expected to miss at least six weeks with a broken thumb, and second baseman Jean Segura will be out until august at the earliest with a broken index finger. Hopefully the Phillies can stay competitive through the next month-plus, and make a serious run at a playoff spot once everyone is healthy.