Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Jesús Luzardo took another important step toward returning for the postseason on Thursday.
Luzardo threw about 30 pitches off the mound in his first bullpen session since being placed on the 15-day injured list with left shoulder inflammation. Interim manager Don Mattingly described it as a normal bullpen, but the session carried plenty of importance for the left-hander.
Cole Weintraub reported the development on X, with Luzardo now expected to face live hitters this weekend. If that goes well and his shoulder responds properly, Philadelphia could have its All-Star starter available for the Wild Card round.
Jesús Luzardo threw 30 pitches in his bullpen, Don Mattingly said. He emphasized that it would be important that the lefty face hitters before the postseason. Rotation or bullpen still in play, and it’s realistic that he’s on the WC roster if he comes out of today feeling good.
— Cole Weintraub (@WeintraubCole)[September 24, 2026]
The timing could hardly be better for the Phillies. Luzardo has been one of their most productive starters this season, posting a 14-5 record with a 2.87 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 221 strikeouts across 178.2 innings.
He also ente...