Awkward landing ends game early for Phils reliever

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TAMPA, Fla. — Phillies reliever Yacksel Rios exited Thursday’s game against the Yankees one out before its completion because of a sprained left ankle.

Rios, who appeared in 13 games with the big club last season, injured himself with an awkward landing on the mound. Manager Gabe Kapler called the injury mild.

“It’s nothing to be concerned about long term, but just sort of precautionary,” Kapler said. “We didn’t want him to have anything that would affect his delivery.”

Lefty Zac Curtis came in after Rios and registered a quick strikeout of Jake Cave to earn the save in a 7-6 win.

The Phillies scored four runs in the sixth and two in the eighth. Aaron Altherr (RBI) and Mitch Walding (two RBIs) both doubled in the sixth. Ryan Flaherty added a sacrifice fly. Danny Ortiz and Pedro Florimon knocked in the runs in the eighth.

Adam Morgan pitched two scoreless innings of relief and catcher Andrew Knapp continued to throw well. He caught Tyler Wade trying to steal second in the third inning. Knapp also doubled twice. Knapp is competing with Cameron Rupp for the second catcher’s job. Jorge Alfaro is the projected No. 1.

Jerad Eickhoff starts against the Pirates in Clearwater on Friday. Zach Eflin and Nick Pivetta both pitched simulated games on Tuesday’s off day. They will return to Grapefruit League action for their next outings.

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