Phillies' rookie starting pitcher Mick Abel sets MLB record

Phillies’ rookie starting pitcher Mick Abel sets MLB record originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Mick Abel has arrived.

The Philadelphia Phillies rookie righty is “the only MLB pitcher in the modern era to pitch at least 5.0 innings with no walks and no more than 1 run allowed in each of his first 2 career appearances,” according to OptaSTATS.

The Phillies lost to the Toronto Blue Jays 2-1 earlier today, but it was by no means on Abel. He went five and 1/3 innings with three hits, one earned run, and two strikeouts to zero walks. Abel threw 52 of his 78 pitches for strikes, headlined by a pinpoint fastball and a swooping curveball.

He also has a poise and calm demeanor typically found in veterans, not rookies.

Abel has largely played second fiddle to RHP Andrew Painter (No. 1) among celebrated Philadelphia prospects, but he is quickly emerging as a legitimate option for manager Rob Thomson.

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Mick Abel faces off against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre.Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Aaron Nola has struggled both on and off the mound this season (6.16 ERA, 5.00 FIP) and now faces a setback in his rehab. With Nola’s return date in question, Abel has a real opportunity to earn his stay on this staff.

Should Abel dominate even half as much as he already has, the Phillies may have to seriously consider a six-man rotation.

Ace Zack Wheeler (6-2, 2.96 ERA, 2.93 FIP) will be back soon after his wife gives birth to their fourth child. Jesús Luzardo (5-1, 3.58 ERA, 2.67 FIP) has been excellent aside from his most recent game versus the Milwaukee Brewers (12 earned runs over three and 1/3 innings).

Christopher Sánchez (5-1, 3.15 ERA, 3.57 FIP) and Ranger Suárez (4-0, 2.72 ERA, 2.52 FIP) round out one of the most formidable units in baseball.

Of course, a six-man rotation is all contingent on Abel’s performance, as he also needs to fend off an ascending Painter for opportunities. But, a few more strong outings could force Thomson’s hand.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 5, 2025, where it first appeared.

Phillies’ rookie starting pitcher Mick Abel sets MLB record

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