Phillies' Mick Abel Ties Rookie Strikeout Record in MLB Debut Sweep of Pirates

Mick Abel, the Philadelphia Phillies' 15th overall pick in 2020, made a highly impressive MLB debut by pitching six shutout innings with nine strikeouts, tying a franchise record for most strikeouts in a debut set by Curt Simmons in 1947. Abel's performance was notable for his control, allowing only five hits and no walks, and demonstrating a significant turnaround from his struggles in Triple-A last season. He outdueled Pittsburgh Pirates' ace Paul Skenes, the reigning NL Rookie of the Year, whose eight innings included three hits and one earned run but ended with an 0-3 record in recent starts despite a strong ERA. The Phillies secured a 1-0 win thanks to an RBI groundout by Brandon Marsh in the fifth inning, completing a three-game sweep of the Pirates. Abel was called up following an injury to Aaron Nola and is expected to return to the minors but left a strong impression with his composure and pitching arsenal. The game also came amid the Phillies dealing with an 80-game suspension for reliever José Alvarado, highlighting Abel's debut as a bright spot for the team.