Phillies likely to start season without pitcher Matt Strahm

The Philadelphia Phillies may start the 2025 MLB season without their All-Star pitcher, Matt Strahm. According to insider Scott Lauber, Strahm is dealing with inflammation in his left shoulder and hasn't pitched since March 5. Lauber expects Strahm will begin the season on the injured list (IL). If the team decides Strahm needs more recovery time, they could backdate his IL placement to March 24. This could allow him to miss only nine games and return for a series in Atlanta on April 8-10. The team would then need a temporary replacement, and Lauber predicts they might choose Kyle Tyler for this short-term need. Strahm, who was an All-Star in 2024, is scheduled to throw from a bullpen mound today, but it’s unclear if he will appear in any spring training games. Despite his injury, he believes he'll be ready for Opening Day. "I'll be ready," Strahm said. He finished last season with a strong record and is set to earn $7.5 million this year, with an option for 2026. The Phillies will begin their 2025 season on March 27 against the Washington Nationals.