The Philadelphia Phillies are heading into the upcoming season with questions about whether the current roster can finally break through in October. The team got weaker this offseason following left‑hander Ranger Suarez’s departure to the Boston Red Sox in MLB free agency.
However, last year in the MLB postseason, the Phillies did not have their best pitcher in right‑hander Zack Wheeler. He underwent season‑ending surgery in August 2025 for venous thoracic outlet syndrome, a procedure that removed a blood clot and his first rib.
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Before the injury, he was firmly in the middle of the National League Cy Young race alongside Pittsburgh Pirates right‑hander Paul Skenes. Through 24 appearances last season, the 35‑year‑old veteran posted a 2.71 ERA, 10‑5 record and 195 strikeouts in 149 2/3 innings.
Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Zack Wheeler (45)© Dennis Lee-Imagn Images
(© Dennis Lee-Imagn Images)
When the news broke about Wheeler’s condition, there was legitimate fear that the injury could be career‑ending. After all, he has repeatedly mentioned that once his current contract expires, a three‑year, $126 million extension that runs through the 2027 season, he plans to hang it up.
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However, he has responded and recovered far better than most pitchers who have undergone similar surgery. On Thursday, all that hard work finally paid off.
Speaking with reporters, Phillies manager Rob Thomson announced that Wheeler will start a minor‑league game on Monday, marking his first in‑game action since August and a clear sign he is on his way back (h/t Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer).
Wheeler will still likely begin the season on the injured list, but the fact that he is close to rejoining the rotation should bring real optimism to Phillies fans. When Wheeler returns, it will mark his seventh season in Philadelphia, a tenure that has been nothing short of outstanding.
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He has earned three All‑Star selections and a Gold Glove, along with four top‑10 finishes in NL Cy Young voting. He has even received NL MVP votes for his dominance on the mound.
With his recovery trending in the right direction, Wheeler’s eventual return could be the stabilizing force the Phillies need to stay competitive in a season filled with uncertainty.
Related: Phillies Receive Kyle Schwarber News Ahead of Opening Day
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.