Zack Wheeler hasn’t pitched in a big-league game since August 15, 2025. Shortly after that outing, the Philadelphia Phillies ace landed on the injured list, was eventually shut down for the rest of the season, and underwent shoulder surgery.
Now, after plenty of work and recovery, Wheeler is set to get back into Philadelphia’s rotation and is set to make his 2026 season debut on Saturday against division rival Atlanta Braves.
Phillies Ace Zack Wheeler will return to the Phillies rotation on Saturday. The Phillies rotation could use some help. They have one of the worst ERA‘s for a starting staff in baseball to start the season. pic.twitter.com/OEU9qXb2WO
Wheeler has been on track for a mid to late April return ever since he started a throwing program during Spring Training. Thankfully, there’s been no real setbacks or complications in his recovery.
The right-hander had made five rehab starts since the start of the 2026 Minor League season, and they’ve been a little all over the place in terms of productivity. Wheeler owns a 5.85 ERA (13 ER/20.0 IP), has given up 19 hits, walked five batters, and struck out 23 hitters.
The overall concern with Wheeler is where his velocity will be once he returns to the mound. Out of everything during his rehab, the velo has been the most inconsistent piece. Wheeler is 35 years old, too, coming off major shoulder surgery, which could be a slight cause for concern.
“The fastball velocity’s gone up. It’s not where it’s gonne be, I don’t believe. The command has been some days good, some days not as good,” said manager Rob Thomson (quote via MLB.com).
Despite the shaky velocity at times, the Phillies skipper still expects Wheeler to be more or less himself once he does get back on the mound. “I’m expecting on a normal day, weather-wise, that he’s gonna have his command… He’s really spun the ball well during all of his outings, so I feel good about him.”
Of course, Wheeler is re-joining a Phillies team that is struggling in just about every aspect of the game. Even the rotation, which was supposed to be one of the strengths of this roster, has struggled on plenty of outings so far this year.
A turnaround can’t solely fall on Wheeler, but seeing him back on the mound, the team knowing they have their Cy Young caluber pitcher back, could put a jolt into the dugout.
Only time will tell whether Wheeler will return to the elite pitcher he was before the injury or be part of a turnaround in Philly. What is a guarantee is that there’s no doubt the Phillies are a better team with him on the mound.
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