Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler is unlikely to be ready when the team kicks off the 2026 season, as he continues recovering from thoracic outlet syndrome. Manager Rob Thomson acknowledged Monday that Wheeler probably won’t be available for Opening Day, though he expressed confidence that the veteran pitcher should return not long afterward. Thomson also emphasized that Wheeler’s rehabilitation is progressing well.
The announcement signals that Philadelphia is preparing to begin the season without its top starter, even while remaining hopeful about his availability later in the year.
Wheeler’s injury troubles began late in the 2025 season when he experienced arm discomfort that was eventually traced to a blood clot in his right upper extremity. Further examinations diagnosed venous thoracic outlet syndrome, a condition involving compression of blood vessels near the shoulder. Doctors recommended thoracic outlet decompression surgery, which ended Wheeler’s 2025 campaign. Early recovery projections placed his return timeline between six and eight months, a significant setback for the 35-year-old pitcher who had consistently been one of baseball’s most dependable frontline starters.
Since undergoing surgery, Wheeler’s recovery has reportedly been on track. Updates throughout the offseason described his progress as strong, with the right-hander gradually rebuilding arm strength, beginning light throwing, and working closely with team trainers. However, the Phillies have remained cautious, avoiding firm commitments regarding his return date.
Philadelphia’s medical staff is focused on ensuring Wheeler avoids setbacks, which aligns with Thomson’s measured outlook that the ace may miss Opening Day but shouldn’t be sidelined much longer.
Wheeler’s absence presents a larger challenge for the Phillies beyond the early part of the season. The team is monitoring how many quality starts they can expect from him once he returns. Prior to the injury, Wheeler had been one of baseball’s most durable and productive starters, consistently delivering innings, strikeouts, and postseason performances.
With uncertainty surrounding their rotation, Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski may explore adding starting pitching depth through trades this spring. The organization has already acknowledged the potential impact on younger pitchers like Andrew Painter and the overall stability of the rotation.
Even a brief delay in Wheeler’s return could influence Philadelphia’s early-season performance in what is expected to be a highly competitive National League race.
