The Philadelphia Phillies received encouraging news on Zack Wheeler’s recovery as they inch closer to Opening Day on March 26 against the Texas Rangers. While the ace right-hander won’t be ready to kick off the 2026 campaign, his rehab is clearly moving in a positive direction.
Wheeler returned to the mound for the first time since undergoing surgery to treat venous thoracic outlet syndrome, marking a significant checkpoint in his comeback. According to reports, including from Todd Zolecki of MLB.com, the veteran threw 21 pitches as part of the early stages of his buildup toward game action.
A typical spring progression calls for roughly six weeks to fully ramp up. When asked whether Wheeler could realistically return within that window, manager Rob Thomson responded, “Possibly,” signaling cautious optimism about the timeline.
Wheeler’s 2025 season came to an abrupt end in August. The 35-year-old was initially sidelined with arm discomfort before doctors discovered a blood clot. He ultimately underwent thoracic outlet decompression surgery. Up to this point, the only clear update had been that he wouldn’t be ready for Opening Day. However, his February throwing session combined with Thomson declining to dismiss a six-week return suggests the recovery is progressing well.
Aside from the shortened 2020 season, Wheeler’s 24 starts in 2025 were his fewest since joining Philadelphia. From 2021 through 2024, he averaged more than 30 starts per season. His peak workload came in 2021 when he led the league in innings pitched, complete games, and shutouts, finishing second in National League Cy Young voting. During his six-year tenure with the Phillies, Wheeler has earned three All-Star selections and a Gold Glove award.
Originally selected sixth overall by the San Francisco Giants in the 2009 MLB Draft, Wheeler was traded to the New York Mets in 2011 in a deal that sent Carlos Beltran the other way. He debuted with the Mets in 2013 and spent five productive seasons there before signing a five-year, $118 million contract with Philadelphia ahead of the 2020 season. The Phillies later extended him with a three-year, $126 million deal.
Replacing Wheeler won’t be easy. He’s been a pillar of the rotation for six seasons. Still, if his absence proves to be only about a month, Philadelphia may be able to weather the storm.
Cristopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, and Aaron Nola are firmly entrenched in the rotation. Taijuan Walker, despite inconsistent performances over the past two years, is expected to secure a starting role based on experience and contract status.
The battle to temporarily replace Wheeler could double as an audition for a longer-term opportunity if Walker struggles early. Top prospect Andrew Painter appears to be the leading candidate. Though injuries have slowed his development, he looks healthy and poised to contribute at the big-league level.
Non-roster invitees Bryse Wilson and Tucker Davidson also bring major-league experience, while Yoniel Curet offers intriguing strikeout potential. Connor Gillispie, signed as a free agent this month after making six starts for the Miami Marlins last season, is another depth option.
