Phillies pitcher Jesús Luzardo avoids structural shoulder damage following MRI examination

Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Jesús Luzardo received a positive injury diagnosis after undergoing an MRI on his pitching shoulder. Tests revealed inflammation but no structural damage after the starter reported recent discomfort. Luzardo will refrain from throwing for several days before the team reevaluates his status following an off-day on Monday. The Phillies remain cautious with their pitcher during the final weeks of the season as they currently sit five games behind the Atlanta Braves in the NL East standings. Luzardo holds a 14-5 record with a 2.87 ERA and 221 strikeouts across 178.2 innings this year, including a recent two-hit shutout against Atlanta on September 7. The team aims to manage his recovery to ensure he remains available for postseason play.

• 9:58 PMYahoo Sports — Phillies’ Jesus Luzardo delivers latest update on his shoulder setback before Braves matchup