Clemens Designated for Assignment, Sanchez Could Return Soon

NEW YORK — Former major league pitcher Roger Clemens‘ son was designated for assignment on Wednesday by the Philadelphia Phillies. This decision came shortly after he experienced left forearm tightness during a start against the New York Mets.

Philadelphia manager Rob Thomson reported that the left-hander felt normal after the incident, and despite the discomfort, he will not undergo an MRI. The Phillies have an off day on Thursday, which could allow for Sanchez to have extra rest and potentially be pushed back in the rotation.

The 28-year-old infielder and outfielder, Clemens was dropped to create space for fellow infielder/outfielder Simon Muzziotti, who was activated from the 10-day injured list after recovering from a strained left oblique. Clemens was acquired in January 2023 and recorded a .220 batting average with nine home runs and 31 RBIs over 97 games last season. However, this year, he has gone 0-for-6 in seven games, primarily serving as a pinch hitter.

In his four major league seasons, Clemens has posted a .197 average, hitting 14 homers and driving in 58 runs. Muzziotti, 30, struggled during his minor league rehab stint, hitting .158 with two RBIs in 10 games split between Class A Clearwater and Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Sanchez had to exit Tuesday night’s 5-1 loss after pitching just two innings, tossing 33 strikes out of 58 total pitches. Despite his struggles, Thomson noted, “He actually wanted to play catch today,” indicating a positive outlook on Sanchez’s recovery. “Last I heard, they just want him just to rest today.”

Meanwhile, left-hander Ranger Suárez, who has been out since spring training due to lower back stiffness, is set to pitch for Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Sunday in his fourth rehab outing. If all goes well, he could be activated soon. Suárez managed to throw 59 pitches for the IronPigs on Tuesday.

“It all depends on how Sanchy feels,” Thomson said regarding the plans for Sanchez’s return to the mound.