The struggling Philadelphia Phillies placed catcher J.T. Realmuto on the 10-day injured list Wednesday due to back spasms.
Realmuto initially exited Saturday’s 3-1 loss to Atlanta with lower back tightness. Although he returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Chicago Cubs, the discomfort resurfaced.
Manager Rob Thomson explained that Realmuto is still dealing with soreness and needs a few days to recover fully. He noted the issue is due to inflammation and expressed optimism that the veteran catcher could return once the 10-day period ends.
In response, the Phillies called up catcher Garrett Stubbs from Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Meanwhile, right-hander Max Lazar, who is recovering from an oblique strain, was moved to the 60-day injured list.
The 35-year-old Realmuto has hit .259 with one home run and four RBIs in 17 games this season. A three-time All-Star, he re-signed with Philadelphia in January on a three-year, $45 million deal.
He now joins a growing injured list that includes closer Jhoan Duran (oblique strain), right-hander Zack Wheeler (shoulder surgery), and reliever Zach Pop (calf strain).
The Phillies entered Wednesday’s matchup against the Cubs riding a seven-game losing streak.
Thomson emphasized the need for other players to step up, pointing to the team’s depth as a key factor. He expressed confidence in Stubbs, noting his experience in meaningful games with Philadelphia.
Elsewhere, left-handed reliever José Alvarado left Tuesday’s game at Wrigley Field with back spasms but was able to throw lightly on Wednesday and is expected to be fine.
Duran, who was acquired from Minnesota in July, has resumed playing catch and is reportedly making progress in his recovery.
