SerpApi.Org
Zack Wheeler struck out nine and allowed two runs over seven innings Tuesday night, but the Philadelphia Phillies still fell 2-1 to the Los Angeles Dodgers on a bizarre ninth-inning double play at Citizens Bank Park.
That loss won't change how the Phillies handle Wheeler's next turn. Philadelphia isn't pushing the right-hander to pitch Saturday on short rest to cover the hole left by Tuesday's game. Instead, the team is protecting the extra rest for Wheeler, Cristopher Sanchez and Jesus Luzardo as the season stretches on, even with Saturday's starter still undecided, per Tim Kelly of OnPattison.
The Phillies' approach reflects who they're leaning on most.
Sanchez, Wheeler and Luzardo have been Philadelphia's most consistent starters as well as among the best in the National League, and keeping them fresh matters more in late July than filling in one rotation spot on turn. Wheeler is 10-1 with 34 strikeouts over his last three outings, Sanchez leads all of MLB with 12 wins in 21-game starts, and Luzardo has a 1.21 ERA in his last five starts.
If Philadelphia holds this course, the three stay lined up to anchor the rotation on normal rest, with the Phillies likely to bring up another arm for the spot start on Saturday against the New York Yankees.
The news shows how important the trade deadline can be for teams preparing for the last few months of the season, as teams look for players who can fill gaps and bolster a deep October run. For now, the Phillies will have to manage with what they have or make a move in the days ahead.
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