By Evan BrunellPhillies left-hander Cole Hamels was placed on the 15-day disabled list with shoulder inflammation, the team announced.
Hamel's injury isn't particularly serious, but Philadelphia is already 6 1/2 games up in first place, plus second-place Atlanta is 8 1/2 up in the wild card, leaving the Phillies in virtually no danger of missing the postseason. And if, in fact, an epic collapse is on the way, it won't be because Hamel was placed on the disabled list. He will rest and recuperate until eligible to be activated on Aug. 29 for a start against the Reds, with the DL stint retroactive to Aug. 13.
Utilityman Pete Orr was recalled to take Hamels' spot on the roster. It's not yet clear who will replace Hamels in the rotation, although that figures to be Kyle Kendrick. Kendrick has assumed a long-man's role this season and has already made 12 starts on the year, coupled with 17 relief appearances, throwing up a 3.24 ERA for his efforts. While you can expect some regression from Kendrick, who has pitched over his head so far, he should function well as the No. 5 starter. The Nos. 1-3 in the rotation are still aces, and Vance Worley is no slouch out of the No. 4 spot, so while Hamels' loss is a blow, the team should weather it.
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