Phillies ace Zack Wheeler may have another act after all

Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler made it very clear that his three-year extension would be his final contract.

Back in 2025, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reported that Wheeler intended to retire once his contract expired following the 2027 season. He stated a desire to spend more time with his growing family and that it would not matter if he continued to pitch at a high level.

Those plans may have changed. Todd Zolecki from MLB.com reported that Wheeler may be reconsidering that decision to hang up his cleats once his current contract runs out.

Zack Wheeler still has plenty left for Philadelphia Phillies

It is easy to see why Wheeler would reconsider that decision based on his performance. He entered Thursday with a 2.16 ERA and a 0.880 WHIP in his 100 innings, striking out 117 batters with 22 walks, despite missing time at the beginning of the season after undergoing thoracic outlet surgery in September.

That performance is not lost on Wheeler. He has finished second in the NL Cy Young voting twice (2021 and 2024) and could force his way into the discussion this season. Likewise, Gelb reported that Wheeler has considered his eventual Hall of Fame candidacy, especially if he can continue his current performance. However, Wheeler would likely need to pitch beyond next season to bolster his case.

A lot can happen between now and the end of the 2027 season. Father Time could suddenly catch up to Wheeler, or he could battle injuries and decide to stick to his original plan. But if he continues to perform at his current level, the 2027 season may not be the end after all.