Ace Zack Wheeler set to return to struggling Phillies rotation on Saturday at Atlanta

By: Matt Carlson, The Associated Press Posted: 5:43 PM CDT Tuesday, Apr. 21, 2026

CHICAGO (AP) — Philadelphia ace right-hander Zack Wheeler, out since last August because of a blood clot found near his right shoulder and thoracic outlet surgery, will return to the struggling Phillies rotation on Saturday in Atlanta, manager Rob Thomson said Tuesday.

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A three-time All-Star, the 35-year-old Wheeler last pitched on Aug. 15, 2025, at Washington, exiting after five innings.

Wheeler finished his sixth season with the Phillies at 10-5 with a 2.71 ERA through 149 2/3 innings and 24 starts. He’s 113-75 with a 3.28 ERA for his career over 11 seasons with Philadelphia and the New York Mets.

FILE - Philadelphia Phillies' Zack Wheeler works out during spring training baseball Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, in Clearwater, Fla. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum,File)

Wheeler completed a five-game minor league rehab stint on Sunday when he threw 77 pitches for Double-A Reading. The righty also pitched for Triple-A Lehigh Valley during the assignment.

Thomson didn’t think Wheeler, who rejoined the Phillies in Chicago, would face significant restrictions against the Braves.

“I see him as kind of a six (inning), 90 (pitch) guy,” Thomson said before the Phillies faced the Cubs. “I think he’s basically at the end of spring training.”

Wheeler’s return could provide a much-needed boost to the Phillies, who entered Tuesday on a six-game slide that dropped them to 8-14.

“I think having Zack Wheeler on your 26-man roster makes you a better roster no matter what,” Thomson said. “So when he’s healthy and pitching, well he’s one of, if not the best pitcher in the National League.”