The Phillies and Blue Jays outlooks improve with anticipated returns of All-Star pitchers Aaron Nola and Shane Bieber. Nola, sidelined since mid-May with an ankle injury and a subsequent rib cage stress reaction, has performed well in rehab outings. Bieber, recovering from Tommy John surgery, has rejoined the Blue Jays after a rehab stint with the Guardians. Integration of these returning pitchers will be key, as both teams have maintained strong rotation performances in their absence, particularly the Phillies, who rank highly in various pitching metrics.
In July, after missing two months due to injury, Nola struck out six over 6 2/3 innings at Triple-A Lehigh Valley, showing promising recovery.
Bieber, recovering from Tommy John surgery, is expected to require one more rehab start before his return, having performed well at Triple-A Buffalo.
The Phillies starting rotation has excelled in Nola's absence, ranking second in MLB in ERA and first in critical advanced metrics.
Teams face the challenge of integrating Nola and Bieber into already effective rotations once they complete their rehab assignments.
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