The Phillies clinched a playoff berth Wednesday, but they may have lost another pitcher for the season Thursday.

A night after learning Jamie Moyer needed season-ending surgery, the team said fellow lefty J.C. Romero's left forearm continues to be an issue. Romero will see a specialist in New York in the next few days.

It appears highly unlikely that he'll be able to pitch in the postseason.

“It’s going to be hard for Romero to go out there and compete. We don’t think he’s well yet,” manager Charlie Manuel said after Thursday’s 5-3 loss to the Astros. “I’ve been waiting to see where he’s at, but I wasn’t counting on him.”

Romero didn't speak to reporters after the game. But earlier in the day, he didn't sound optimistic.

“If I’m not healthy to help the team, I’ll step aside for somebody else,” Romero said. “You have to be smart. I’ll try to do my thing, but if I can’t pitch I have to step aside.”