Zack Wheeler’s recovery from injury receives a key update
Zack Wheeler of the Philadelphia Phillies has received a significant update as he continues recovering from surgery for venous thoracic outlet syndrome, which was caused by a blood clot in his right shoulder in 2025.
The 35-year-old right-hander is set to begin his rehab assignment by pitching three innings for Triple-A Lehigh Valley. According to Todd Zolecki, Wheeler will throw 45 pitches in that outing, with additional rehab starts already scheduled in Durham and Double-A Reading as part of his recovery plan.
Although the exact date for his 2026 season debut remains uncertain, Wheeler is reportedly progressing well and could return to the Phillies’ rotation by late April or early May.
Since debuting in MLB in 2013 with the New York Mets, Wheeler has built a strong career and has been especially dominant since joining Philadelphia in 2020. Before landing on the 60-day injured list in 2025, he posted a 2.71 ERA, 0.935 WHIP, and 195 strikeouts.
While he works his way back, the Phillies are relying on a rotation that includes Cristopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, Aaron Nola, Taijuan Walker, and Andrew Painter. Sanchez, in particular, impressed on Opening Day, helping secure a win over the Texas Rangers with a dominant performance.
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