The Philadelphia Phillies are on the verge of getting a major boost to their rotation, as ace Zack Wheeler is expected to return this weekend against the Atlanta Braves.
Wheeler has been sidelined since last August after undergoing thoracic outlet surgery, a serious procedure that included the removal of a rib following a blood clot near his shoulder. Now, after a full rehab process, his return appears imminent.
The right-hander made five rehab starts between Triple-A Lehigh Valley and Double-A Reading, logging 23 strikeouts over 20 innings. While the results were mixed, the priority was building strength and getting back to game speed.
Before the injury, Wheeler was in the Cy Young conversation and remains the clear anchor of the Phillies’ rotation. His return comes at a critical time for a team searching for consistency.
If Wheeler can quickly return to form, the Phillies’ outlook could shift dramatically as they look to begin playing better (can’t get much worse!) baseball.
