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Phillies Get Good News On Zack Wheeler's Return From Paternity List

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated Jun 8, 2025 2:05 PM ET

The Philadelphia Phillies, in the middle of losing eight of their last nine games, got a bit of good news Sunday morning. With Zack Wheeler missing his previous start due to the birth of his child, his next start was also in question. But after a new report, the Phillies ace is expected to be back on the mound soon.

According to Corey Seidman of NBC Sports Philadelphia on Twitter/X, the Phillies plan to activate Wheeler off the paternity list and have him start on Monday, June 9th, against the Chicago Cubs.

Zack Wheeler will start for the Phillies in tomorrow’s series opener at home against the Cubs. Mick Abel on Tuesday. Jesus Luzardo on Wednesday.
— Corey Seidman (@CSeidmanNBCS) June 8, 2025

Wheeler rejoins the Phillies rotation which has gone through it's fair share of struggles lately. Across Jesus Luzardo's last two starts, he's allowed 20 earned runs. Christopher Sanchez and Ranger Suarez have been solid, but neither has been dominant.

Meanwhile, Wheeler's absence led the Phillies to trot out a bullpen game, which culminated in a loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Phillies have sorely needed Wheeler's presence in the rotation, and he's expected back for the series-opener against the first-place Cubs.

In 2025, Wheeler has been his dominant self once again. He has a 2.96 ERA with 6 wins and 2 losses, both coming against the Atlanta Braves. In his 12 starts, Wheeler's gone 76 innings, and struck out 94 while walking just 18.

He is once again a Cy Young candidate, and if it weren't for two bad starts against the Braves, he'd be the leading candidate for the National League Cy Young.

Wheeler's return in the middle of a losing streak is a welcome sign. With Bryce Harper on the 10-day injured list, and Aaron Nola still out with a foot injury, the Phillies need a spark. Wheeler, the Phillies best pitcher, is a major boost to the team once he's back on the mound.

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

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