Phillies To Activate Zack Wheeler On Saturday
MLB Trade Rumors • • sports
Key Points:
- Zack Wheeler is set to make his season debut for the Phillies against the Braves on Saturday night following thoracic outlet surgery last year, with a pitch count expected to be capped around 90 pitches and six innings.
- Wheeler recently completed his fifth minor league rehab start, showing progress but with a reduced velocity of about 93 mph compared to 96 mph last season.
- The Phillies' rotation has struggled significantly this season, ranking 27th in MLB with a 5.48 ERA, with only Cristopher Sánchez performing well, while veterans like Taijuan Walker and Aaron Nola have underperformed.
- Walker, in the final year of his contract, has had a tough start with early exits and multiple home runs allowed, but will likely retain a roster spot due to bullpen injuries.
- The Phillies hope Wheeler’s return will boost their pitching staff, which has been a major weakness in their 8-15 start to the season, while long-term pitching roles remain undecided.
