Already without Rhys Hoskins for the rest of the season -- he'll have surgery to repair an abdominal tear as early as next week -- the Phillies could be without starting pitcher Zach Eflin for the final weeks of the season, as well.
Eflin has not pitched in the majors since July 16 because of right knee tendinitis. He tried to get back into the rotation Thursday night but was scratched after a flare-up. On Friday, he tested positive for COVID-19 and will be out at least 10 days. Even if everything goes smoothly in his recovery from both issues, there might not be enough time left in the season to ramp up after that.
"It's not like he's going to be doing a lot of throwing," manager Joe Girardi said Saturday.
So the chances are slim that Eflin pitches again this season?
"I would say that's probably fair, yeah," Girardi said.
Eflin is 4-7 with a 4.17 ERA in 18 starts this season.
Matt Moore has been taking Eflin's spot in the rotation and will continue to do so, Girardi said.