Phillies could get early boost from Zack Wheeler

Losing Ranger Suarez in free agency was a significant blow to the Philadelphia Phillies starting rotation. However, it could receive a needed reinforcement sooner than expected.

Paul Casella of MLB.com reported that Phillies manager Rob Thomson said that he does not expect staff ace Zack Wheeler to be ready for Opening Day. However, Thomson also said that he does not anticipate having to wait too long for Wheeler to return.

Wheeler was placed on the Injured List on Aug. 16 due to a blood clot near his right shoulder. He underwent surgery two days later, costing him the rest of the 2025 season.

Getting Zack Wheeler back early would be a significant boost for Philadelphia Phillies rotation

Although Cristopher Sanchez has emerged as a top-of-the-rotation starter, the rest of the Phillies rotation is filled with question marks. 

Jesus Luzardo had an excellent showing in 2025, but has made more than 18 starts just twice in his career. Aaron Nola had the worst season of his career and missed time due to a sprained right ankle and a stress reaction in his right ribcage. Taijuan Walker is a back-of-the-rotation starter at best, and pitching prospect Andrew Painter posted a 5.40 ERA and a 1.547 WHiP over 106.2 innings at Triple-A.

A healthy Wheeler would transform the Phillies rotation. Although his shoulder issues led to a rough final six starts before he was placed on the IL, Wheeler still posted a 2.71 ERA and a 0.935 WHiP over his 149.2 innings, striking out 195 batters with 33 walks.

The Phillies could face a difficult battle in the NL East as the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets have improved during the offseason. Getting Wheeler back shortly after Opening Day could be the boost they need to win the division for the third consecutive year.