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Phillies Officially Name Opening Day Starter

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Caleb Gebrewold | Last updated Mar 18, 2025 3:00 PM ET

The Philadelphia Phillies had a strong regular season in 2024 as they finished 95-67, winning a very difficult NL East. They were quickly bounced from the postseason, however, losing to the New York Mets in the NLDS.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson recently announced that Zack Wheeler will get the nod against the Washington Nationals on Opening Day as they look to bounce back and contend for a World Series title. It will mark the second consecutive Opening Day start for the two-time All-Star.

Todd Zolecki of MLB.com shared comments from Thomson, who stated:

He’s one of the best pitchers in baseball. It’s the combination of power and command -- pitchability. That’s why he’s so great, per Todd Zolecki of MLB.com

Wheeler made 32 starts in 2024, finishing with a 16-7 record, 2.57 ERA, and 224 strikeouts in 200.0 innings pitched. He finished second in NL Cy Young Award voting, with Atlanta Braves starter Chris Sale taking home the award.

The Nationals, who are looking to bounce back from a 71-91 finish, are set to counter with southpaw MacKenzie Gore. The former top-five prospect also made 32 starts last season, posting a 10-12 record, 3.90 ERA, and 181 strikeouts in 166.1 innings pitched.

Philadelphia has left Jesus Luzardo and Aaron Nola lined up to start the second and third games of the series, respectively. The latter, who also received NL Cy Young Award votes in 2024, had started six consecutive Opening Days between 2018 and 2023. He recently praised Wheeler, labeling him as the best pitcher in baseball.

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

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