Phillies manager Rob Thomson breaks down return of Bryce Harper’s teammate amid rotation shakeup

The recent early exit of the Philadelphia Phillies left-hander and Bryce Harper‘s teammate Cristopher Sanchez during his April 22 start against the New York Mets raised immediate concerns within the organization. An apparent physical issue triggered fears of a potential injury setback.

However, following a period of rest and a thorough medical evaluation, Sanchez made his much-anticipated return to the starting rotation, taking the mound against the Washington Nationals in his latest outing.

Following the game, Phillies manager Rob Thomson offered a measured yet encouraging assessment of Sanchez’s performance. While acknowledging some expected rust after a week away from live action, Thomson praised the lefty’s raw stuff and overall competitiveness.

“Yeah, [Sanchez] looked a little rusty. Been a week since he’s pitched. Command was off a little bit, but his stuff was really good. The change-up looked normal, the slider looked normal, fastball velocity was good. Yeah, so I’m pleased with it,“ Thomson said, striking a tone of cautious optimism as Sanchez continues to work his way back into full rhythm.

Cristopher Sánchez #61 of the Philadelphia Phillies pitches in the fifth inning against the Washington Nationals during a game at Citizens Bank Park on April 30, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

Sanchez settles in despite layoff

In his first start since the health scare, Sanchez pitched five innings, allowing five hits, three walks, and two earned runs, while striking out six. Despite the layoff, he kept the Phillies in the game and demonstrated flashes of his usual sharpness. With a solid 3.45 ERA and a 3–1 record so far in the 2025 season, Sanchez is proving to be a dependable presence in the rotation.

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What’s ahead for the Phillies’ rotation?

The looming return of Ranger Suárez signals a turning point for Philadelphia’s pitching staff. With Suárez rejoining a group that includes Sanchez and the adaptable Taijuan Walker as a strong sixth option, the Phillies are nearing full health in their rotation for the first time this year. A deep, well-balanced starting staff could become a defining strength as the team pushes deeper into the season. Sanchez’s steady recovery is not only reassuring—it’s essential to the club’s postseason aspirations.