NEW YORK — Rob Thomson was asked after a 7-2 Game 3 loss if Zack Wheeler could be available out of the bullpen for the Phillies in Game 4 of the NLDS against the Mets.
His response was a rather obvious one considering the Phillies are facing elimination, but interesting nonetheless.
"I think everybody is available tomorrow," Thomson said.
During Monday's workout day media session, Thomson was asked whether the Phillies would stick with Ranger Suárez — who had a 5.65 ERA after the All-Star Break — as their starting pitcher for Game 4, regardless of Game 3's outcome. He said they would. That's not a legally binding answer, but there's no indication from the manager that having Wheeler start on three day's rest, after throwing 111 pitches in Game 1, is a consideration.
However, it's possible a situation could arise where the Phillies would want to use Wheeler for an inning out of the bullpen. Jeff Hoffman, Matt Strahm, Carlos Estévez, Orion Kerkering, José Ruiz and José Alvarado have all struggled at times during this NLDS.
Rob Thomson talks about what his message was to the Phillies after losing Game 3. @OnPattison @PhilliesNation pic.twitter.com/WWs05VlGxc
Particularly if Suárez has a short outing, Wheeler might be needed to take down an inning in relief. He pitched 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief in Game 7 of the NLCS a year ago, just three days after tossing seven innings in a Game 5 start.
The difference in that case was there wasn't a tomorrow. If the Phillies force a Game 5 at Citizens Bank Park, Wheeler is expected to start it. It's unclear if pitching an inning in relief Wednesday would limit how deep he could go Friday.
Of course, there will only be a Friday if the Phillies find a way to stave off elimination on Wednesday. So while the Phillies would surely prefer to avoid Wheeler in Game 4, it can't be ruled out.
