Phillies Make Zack Wheeler Announcement Ahead of Blue Jays Game

Wheeler takes time off for the birth of his next child, and the Phillies bring Abel back up to the big leagues to take his place. While the Phillies will lose at least one start from Wheeler, Abel's performance in his MLB debut makes Wheelers absence hurt less.

In Abels MLB debut, he went toe-to-toe with Paul Skenes. He went 6 innings agains the Pittsburgh Pirates, didn't allow a run, and gave up five hits and no walks, while striking out 9 batters. It was one of the best debut performances for a starting pitcher in Phillies history.

Abel in the Minor Leagues has also been great. In 10 starts, he has a 2.21 ERA, and a 6-2 record. Across his 57 innings, Abel has struck out 67 batters, and walked 26. After a rough 2024 where he had a 6.46 ERA, Abel has impressed for the Phillies in 2025.

He'll replace Wheeler, who has a 2.96 ERA, and a 6-2 record across his 12 starts in 2025. He has 2.3 WAR through 12 starts, and is having another Cy Young caliber season.

Wheeler has pitched 76 innings for the Phillies in 2025, striking out 94 and walking just 18. His Phillies tenure has been incredible, and he's gotten off to a strong start in 2025.

But, in the meantime, Wheeler heads to the paternity list and Abel takes his spot on the MLB roster. Abel will get the start on Wednesday night against the Blue Jays for his second Major League start.