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Phillies’ Zack Wheeler kept his removed rib after surgery

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Feb 11, 2026 4:43 PM ET

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler underwent major surgery, but decided to keep a bizarre souvenir from it.

Wheeler admitted to reporters on Wednesday that he kept the rib he had removed as part of thoracic outlet surgery he underwent last September. Wheeler credited his doctor with taking the necessary steps to preserve the rib, and said he is keeping it in his closet for the time being.

“I just have it sitting in the house. It’s in my closet,” Wheeler said.

Zack Wheeler kept his rib that he had removed during thoracic outlet decompression surgery. It’s in his closet at his house.

(Via @TimKellySports) pic.twitter.com/VWJCMmNoaQ
— OnPattison (@OnPattison) February 11, 2026

Wheeler is hardly the first athlete to keep something from a major surgery. He isn’t quite taking it to the same level as Commanders quarterback Sam Hartman once did, though.

Wheeler underwent the surgery last September after a blood clot was discovered near his right shoulder. He will miss at least the start of the season, though he is hoping to be able to pitch at some point in 2026.

A key part of the Phillies’ rotation, Wheeler has a 2.91 ERA since joining the team in 2020. He had a 2.71 ERA in 24 starts last year, and was a legitimate Cy Young contender before being shut down in mid-August.

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

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