Phillies Call Up Mick Abel for Second Start Amid Nola Injury

The Philadelphia Phillies are making a notable pitching rotation adjustment by recalling rookie Mick Abel to start against the Toronto Blue Jays, while moving veteran Taijuan Walker to the bullpen. Abel impressed in his major league debut with nine strikeouts over six shutout innings and has demonstrated strong performance in Triple-A this season, boasting a 2.21 ERA and 67 strikeouts over 57 innings. Walker, who initially replaced the injured Aaron Nola in the rotation, struggled in recent starts and will now be utilized in high-leverage bullpen situations to bolster a generally unreliable relief corps. Abel's stay in the rotation is likely temporary, as Nola is expected to return from his ankle injury by mid-June after a rehab stint. The Phillies view this roster shake-up as their best chance to maintain pitching strength while managing injuries and performance inconsistencies. Abel's fastball velocity and diverse pitch mix contribute to his potential, but top prospect Andrew Painter remains the organization's higher-ceiling future starter.