It was going to be a one-and-done start no matter what.
Following his excellent Major League debut on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Mick Abel was optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Right-handed pitcher Max Lazar was recalled to take his spot on the roster, the Phillies announced Monday. Lazar will pitch out of the bullpen.
Abel threw six shutout innings, allowing five hits and striking out nine in a win over the Pirates. Manager Rob Thomson told Abel before his call up that it was going to be a spot start. The Phillies will keep Abel stretched out in the Lehigh Valley rotation.