The Philadelphia Phillies have been one of many largest disappointments in MLB up to now in 2026. A key a part of the rotation could also be returning after they want him most.
Charlotte Varnes of The Athletic reported that pitcher Zack Wheeler will return to the Phillies rotation on Saturday in opposition to the Braves. He’ll slot between Andrew Painter and Aaron Nola in the interim.
Wheeler had been within the midst of a Cy Younger caliber season in 2025 earlier than he was sidelined with venous thoracic outlet syndrome. He posted a 2.71 ERA and a 0.935 WHiP over his 149.2 innings, placing out 195 batters with 33 walks.
Philadelphia Phillies want Zack Wheeler to stabilize rotation
The Phillies rotation has struggled with out Wheeler. Though Cristopher Sanchez has continued to be a stable top-of-the-rotation starter, he’s the one starter who has been above common this season. Jesus Luzardo and Taijuan Walker have been notably dreadful, posting a 7.94 ERA and a 9.16 ERA, respectively.
Though Wheeler constructed as much as 77 pitches throughout his rehab task, he struggled throughout his time between Double-A and Triple-A. He posted a 5.85 ERA and a 1.200 WHiP in his 20 innings, placing out 23 batters with 5 walks.
The Phillies entered Tuesday with an 8-14 file, fourth within the NL East. Though pennants are usually not received in April, they are often misplaced within the first few weeks of the season. Wheeler could also be making his debut proper because the Phillies want him most.
