Zack Wheeler. © Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Phillies' Rob Thomson reacts to Zack Wheeler news

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin M. Groe | Last updated Jul 3, 2025 4:07 PM ET

Right-hander Zack Wheeler of the Philadelphia Phillies is playing in his 11th major league season after making his debut for the New York Mets back in 2013.

Originally selected sixth overall in the 2009 MLB Draft by the San Francisco Giants, Wheeler was dealt to the Mets in 2011 in exchange for veteran outfielder Carlos Beltrán.

Now in his sixth season in Philadelphia — following five strong years in New York — Wheeler has gone 67–35 in a Phillies uniform, firmly establishing himself as the staff ace and a leader both in the clubhouse and on the mound.

This year is shaping up to be the best of his career. He’s in strong contention for his first NL Cy Young Award and has powered the Phillies to a 51–36 mark — good for a two-game cushion in the NL East.

In June, Wheeler dominated with 31 innings pitched, 42 strikeouts, a 0.58 ERA and a 0.87 WHIP, performances that earned him NL Pitcher of the Month honors.

Manager Rob Thomson spoke about Wheeler’s recent excellence, “I’m not sure if I’ve had a pitcher, whether I’m coaching or managing, that has had a month like that.”

Zack Wheeler was named NL Pitcher of the Month for June.

“I’m not sure if I’ve had a pitcher, whether I’m coaching or managing, that has had a month like that,” Rob Thomson said on Monday.
— Lochlahn March (@lochlahn) July 3, 2025

A two-time All-Star (2021, 2024) and runner-up in NL Cy Young voting those same seasons, Wheeler has been at his best for the Phillies in October. In 12 career postseason starts, he is 4–3 with a 2.18 ERA and 77 strikeouts, quickly becoming the most reliable arm in Philadelphia’s playoff rotation.

In March 2024, the 35-year-old veteran signed a three-year, $126 million extension with the Phillies and has made clear his intention to retire when that contract expires — despite continuing to refine and elevate his craft in the later stages of his career.

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

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