Rob Thomson provides injury updates on 5 players

The injuries are starting to pile up for the Phillies.

After Wednesday’s 9-8 victory over the Yankees in Tampa, manager Rob Thomson updated reporters on the injury status of numerous players (via Todd Zolecki of MLB.com, Matt Gelb of The Athletic and Anthony SanFilippo of Crossing Broad):

• Cristopher Sánchez (triceps tightness) and Nick Nelson (left hamstring strain) are shut down from throwing. Both were in the mix for a roster spot.
• Garrett Stubbs (right knee soreness) was scheduled to get an MRI. He was replaced by his younger brother C.J. on Team Israel in the World Baseball Classic. It’s unclear if he’ll be ready for Opening Day.
• Rafael Marchan (bruised right hamate) is unable to hit. He last appeared in a Grapefruit League game on March 7.
• Ranger Suárez (left forearm tightness) began throwing from 60 feet on Tuesday. He could do some long toss on Thursday. The Phillies should have an idea over the next few days on whether or not Suárez could be ready for the first week of the season.

Suárez progressing in his throwing program is huge news. Injuries — and a lack of depth behind the starting five — have left the Phillies in a precarious position. If any more injuries pop up, the Phillies could be looking at starting the season with Bailey Falter as the No. 4 and Michael Plassmeyer as the fifth starter.

The Phillies would need a backup catcher at the beginning of the season if Marchan and Stubbs both begin the season on the injured list. As far as internal options go, Aramis Garcia, a non-roster invitee who spent time with the Reds last season, could be an option. John Hicks, who is 6-for-20 so far this spring, could also get a look.

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