Ranger Suárez dealing with forearm tightness

An injury will keep Ranger Suárez away from the World Baseball Classic.

Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports that the Phillies lefty is dealing with forearm tightness. Zolecki added that the Phillies believe it is a minor injury and that it will push him back a few days. He’s back in Clearwater getting treatment.

Suárez told reporters, including Alex Coffey of the Inquirer, that he thinks he’ll be ready for the start of the season.

On whether he feels he’ll be ready for the start of the season: “I think so. At least that’s what I’m hoping for. I know it’s a very long season so I don’t want to miss much of it.”

— Alex Coffey (@byalexcoffey) March 10, 2023

Suárez pitched 1 2/3 innings for Venezuela in an exhibition against the Houston Astros on Wednesday. He did not appear in a Grapefruit League game before departing for the tournament, but he did reportedly throw a simulated game on the backfields last week.

Suárez spent 13 days on the injured list last season with back spasms. He’ll presumably open the season as the club’s No. 3 starter if healthy.

MORE FROM PHILLIES NATION

1. Phillies Nation Top 15 Prospects: March 2023
2. Phillies Nuggets: Opening Day Lineup Projection 3.0
3. Bryce Harper :‘I Want To Play Well Into My 40s’
4. José Alvarado Talks Transformation, World Series, New Contract & More
5. Phillies 2023 Opening Day Roster Projection 2.0
6. Rhys Hoskins Talks Playoff Memories, Team Confidence Heading Into 2023
7. Carlos Correa On Andrew Painter: ‘This Kid’s Going To Be A Star’
8. When Will The Phillies Get A “City Connect” Uniform?
9. Noah Song’s Journey Back To Professional Baseball Adds Layer Of Intrigue To Phillies Camp
10. Garrett Stubbs Bat-Spiked And DJ’d His Way To Fan Favorite Status In 2022. He’s Ready For ‘New Memories’ In 2023