The Philadelphia Phillies have provided an encouraging update on veteran left-handed pitcher as the club continues its push toward the postseason.
Banks has been sidelined since July 9 with a left forearm strain. After spending several weeks on the injured list without much progress reported, the Phillies now appear to be moving closer to getting him back on the mound.
According to the latest injury update, Banks threw a live batting-practice session on Aug. 18 without experiencing any issues. He is expected to throw at least one more live BP session before potentially beginning a minor-league rehab assignment.
If his recovery continues without setbacks, the Phillies are hoping Banks can return sometime in the middle to late part of September. That timeline would put him close to the start of the postseason, meaning Philadelphia will have to determine whether he can make an impact in its playoff bullpen.
Banks, 34, is in his fifth MLB season. He made his major-league debut with the Chicago White Sox in 2022 before joining the Phillies in July 2024. Since then, he has spent parts of three seasons in Philadelphia.
His 2026 campaign has been difficult. Before suffering the injury, Banks went 0-4 with a 7.14 ERA across 28 appearances, including one start. For his career, he has posted an 11-13 record with a 4.01 ERA in 277 games.
The Phillies have already strengthened their bullpen ahead of the postseason. Philadelphia acquired left-hander Brooks Raley from the New York Mets and right-hander Caleb Kilian at the trade deadline, giving the team additional options while Banks works his way back.
Philadelphia has also been playing some of its best baseball recently. The Phillies entered Wednesday coming off a five-game winning streak after defeating the Miami Marlins 6-4, putting themselves firmly in the playoff picture.
With Banks now throwing again, the Phillies will hope the veteran can complete his rehab without setbacks and potentially provide another bullpen option when the postseason arrives.
