Why Zach Eflin’s season may not be over

There’s not enough time for Zach Eflin (right patellofemoral pain) to return to his regular role in the starting rotation, but it is possible that the 28-year-old soon-to-be free agent could return this season in a bullpen role.

Interim Phillies manager Rob Thomson said Sunday morning that Eflin is pain free and will accompany the Phillies on the upcoming west coast road trip. He threw on flat ground this week and could throw a bullpen early next week.

Eflin has not pitched for the Phillies since June 25, the same day Bryce Harper went down with a thumb fracture. The team classified his injury as a right knee bruise. He pitched a simulated game in Miami just before the All-Star break in an attempt to return, but he experienced soreness afterwards. He tried throwing again off the mound in early August, but the Phillies right hander was still experiencing pain afterwards.

Eflin will try again to carve out a role on a Phillies club that’s looking to make a postseason. There is room for him. Corey Knebel is out for the year with a shoulder capsule tear and lat injury. Eflin did throw 2 2/3 scoreless innings out of the ‘pen during the final game of the season in a losing effort against the Rays in 2020.

It all depends on if he can pitch (and field) without pain. Considering that he’s experienced numerous setbacks this season, a possible Eflin return is far from a guarantee.

In other Phillies injury news, Seranthony Domínguez (right triceps tendinitis) will resume throwing on Sunday.

Here is the Phillies’ lineup for Sunday’s series finale against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Rhys Hoskins and Brandon Marsh have the day off.

1. Kyle Schwarber, left field
2. Nick Castellanos, right field
3. Alec Bohm, first base
4. Bryce Harper, designated hitter
5. J.T. Realmuto, catcher
6. Jean Segura, second base
7. Bryson Stott, shortstop
8. Matt Vierling, center field
9. Edmundo Sosa, third base

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