John Lannan will get an opportunity to show the Nationals what he's learned during his stint with Double-A Harrisburg on Sunday after being called back up to the Major Leagues.
Lannan was demoted last month after putting up the worst numbers of his short major league career. He insists that there is nothing wrong with his arm, but his performances simply haven't been up to his standards. He's only posted one win in seven starts since being demoted to Harrisburg.
He hasn't truly earned his way back into the starting rotation, but with three Nationals pitchers on the shelf, the team didn't have many other choices. The team is hoping Lannan can play closer to the level we saw in 2008 and 2009, but it will be difficult given Lannan's track record against the Phillies:
In nine starts against the Phillies, Lannan is 0-7 with a 6.32 ERA and a .935 OPS against. On opening day this year, he allowed the Phillies five earned runs on seven hits and three walks, lasting only 3 2/3 innings.
Buckle up, folks. Sunday's game could get ugly.