Luis Arraez Injured, Playoff Berth Uncertain for Phillies
Key offensive acquisition suffers sprained ankle with three games remaining and playoff spot not yet clinched.
Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Luis Arraez suffered a sprained left ankle during the sixth inning of Thursday's 5-1 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers, potentially complicating the team's push for a playoff spot. The injury occurred as Arraez attempted to avoid a tag from first baseman Jake Bauers following a wayward throw. X-rays on his ankle came back negative.
Manager Don Mattingly expressed hope for Arraez's return this season but acknowledged the situation is still uncertain with only three regular-season games remaining. The Phillies (87-72) currently hold a two-game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks for the final Wild Card spot in the National League.
Arraez's injury effectively secures his lead in the National League batting title race, as he finishes the regular season with a .310 average. He was acquired by the Phillies at the trade deadline from the San Francisco Giants in exchange for minor league pitcher Caleb Kilian.
The Phillies have not yet clinched a postseason berth, having gone 2-4 in their last six games. They have a magic number of two entering their final series against the Tampa Bay Rays at home. A win on Friday combined with a loss by the Diamondbacks could secure their playoff spot.
Beyond securing a playoff spot, the seeding for the NL Wild Card remains undetermined. The San Diego Padres (89-70), Chicago Cubs (88-71), and the Phillies are all within two games of each other. Arizona can only potentially claim the No. 6 seed if they overtake Philadelphia.