Right-hander Michael Wacha, who has anchored the Cardinals' rotation this season, exited his start on Wednesday afternoon against the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park with a left oblique strain.
The departure came with two out in the fourth after Wacha had allowed a two-run homer to Cesar Hernandez and issued a walk to Rhys Hoskins. Head athletic trainer Adam Olsen joined manager Mike Matheny and pitching coach Mike Maddux in a visit to the mound, and after a short discussion with Wacha, the Cardinals made the pitching change.
In what was his shortest appearance of the season, Wacha allowed three runs (one earned) on six hits and two walks with two strikeouts over 3 2/3 innings.