MLB Facing Backlash for Zack Wheeler Decision

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MLB Facing Backlash for Zack Wheeler Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Xavier Constantino | Last updated Jul 6, 2026 1:39 PM ET

Zack Wheeler’s absence from the initial National League All-Star Game roster has become one of the more heated topics heading into the Midsummer Classic, and his longtime agent believes the MLB got it wrong.

The Philadelphia Phillies ace missed the season's first four weeks recovering from Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Since returning, he has a 2.36 ERA in 13 starts and 80 innings, numbers that rank among the best in the NL.

Wheeler's agent, B.B. Abbott, spoke with The Athletic's Matt Gelb about Wheeler's All-Star snub.

"There was no doubt in his mind that he was getting back to this level," Abbott said. "None. Zero."

There’s All-Star snubs every year. Zack Wheeler is probably the first one with a 2.36 ERA in 80 innings less than a year after surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome. His longtime agent thinks MLB missed the mark: https://t.co/LkYBcWTQzY
— Matt Gelb (@MattGelb) July 6, 2026

That is why Abbott was both shocked and disappointed when MLB revealed its All-Star rosters on Saturday and Wheeler was not listed.

“Major League Baseball knows,” said Abbott, “Everybody knows what he’s been through. And to not do what you needed to do to let this guy be honored in his home ballpark, it’s ludicrous.”

Fans were also disappointed with the news, with some also holding out hope that Wheeler may be added to the roster as players drop out due to injury or decline to participate.

One fan said, "Soon enough, one or more pitchers will back out of the game."

Another fan added that Wheeler's omission from the All-Star Game roster could be more about his long-term health as the season progresses into the second half, "He should probably take the break anyway. Bad enough that Sanchez and Duran will be pitching."

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Five Phillies were selected to the NL roster: Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber , Brandon Marsh, Cristopher Sanchez and Jhoan Duran. Manager Don Mattingly said he was uncertain whether Wheeler's rotation turn, which lines him up to start the final game before the All-Star break, factored into any decision.

All-Star rosters are rarely finalized at the time of announcement, leaving the door open for Wheeler to be added at his home ballpark in Philadelphia.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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