The final pitch that sent the Phillies to the 2022 World Series was thrown by Ranger Suárez. As far as bullpen scenarios go, it doesn’t get much more high-leverage than that: a one-run lead over San Diego in the ninth inning of Game 5 of the National League Championship Series.

Suarez, whose achy but not breaky back has set him back since spring training, has finally been cleared to rejoin the club on an active basis, and is slated to start Sunday against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Citizens Bank Park. With his season debut, Suarez becomes the Phillies’ sixth starter – by number, not status.

Philadelphia Phillies analyst predicts a veteran starter will be relegated to the bullpen once left-hander Ranger Suárez makes his return.