Overview
- Manager Don Mattingly announced Saturday that Jesús Luzardo will be pushed back to the series' second game so he gets extra rest before pitching in Washington.
- Right-hander Andrew Painter was optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley after a rough outing and will work on delivery and bullpen sessions before returning to game action.
- The club signaled it will avoid a short bullpen-opener for the series and is seeking a starter who can provide bulk innings rather than multiple short relief turns.
- Alan Rangel is the leading candidate to take the No. 5 spot on short rest because he is stretched out in Triple-A, with Bryse Wilson available but less likely because he has not built up enough recent pitch volume.
- Lefty Kyle Backhus is nearing the end of a rehab assignment and could rejoin the bullpen next week while Trea Turner has been cleared to return to the lineup, moves that strengthen depth as the Phillies defend a slim Wild Card margin.