Philadelphia Phillies right-handed pitching prospect Mick Abel is set to make his MLB debut on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Earlier on Friday, the Phillies placed starting pitcher Aaron Nola (ankle) on the 15-day IL. However, Abel is only expected to receive one start as veteran Taijuan Walker will replace Abel in the rotation next week. The former 15th overall pick is viewed as one of the top prospects in the Philadelphia system. Through his first 46 1/3 innings of work this season, the right-hander has performed well at Triple-A, holding a 2.53 ERA with a 1.21 WHIP. During this stint, he has struck out 51 batters and served up 19 walks. Last season at Triple-A, Abel struggled as he held a high 6.46 ERA. Given his progress this season, he will have streaming appeal in deeper formats facing the struggling Pirates.

Philadelphia Phillies pitching prospect Mick Abel allowed just one earned run in his latest start, yielding three hits and two walks whilestriking out nine over seven innings of work. The former first-round draft pick started the season well, pitching to a 3.80 ERA, 1.45 WHIP, and an 18.5 percent K-BB% over his first four starts, but has taken it up a notch over his last four, posting a 1.44 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, and a 15.0 percent K-BB% during that time. It is a vast improvement over lastseason's 6.46 ERA, 1.81 WHIP, and 7.6 percent K-BB% that the righty logged in 24 starts, all at Triple-A. The 6-foot-5 hurler looks to be on the doorstep to the majors, so if he continues to pitch well, look for a call-up later thisseason. He isn't a must-stash, but with his big frame and pitch-mix, he has the ability to be a solid big-league starter from the get-go, so fantasy managers shouldkeep a watchful eye out for news of a promotion.