Zack Wheeler struggles as Phillies’ win streak ends in Seattle

Key Points:

• Phillies’ ace Zack Wheeler struggled significantly in Monday’s 9-2 loss to the Mariners, allowing five runs in the first inning and finishing with eight runs, four home runs, and five walks over four-plus innings.
• Wheeler’s command issues have been a recurring problem, as he has walked 15 batters over his last four starts, marking his highest walk total in a four-start span since 2014.
• Despite the recent struggles, both Wheeler and Phillies manager Don Mattingly emphasized that the pitcher is healthy and that the focus is on regaining command and execution rather than concerns about physical condition.
• The Phillies’ nine-game winning streak ended, and the team faces pressure to rely on their top starters, including Wheeler, to maintain their push for a fifth straight postseason appearance.
• The Phillies plan to review possible causes for Wheeler’s struggles, including potential tipping of pitches, but no clear issues were observed during the game; Aaron Nola is scheduled to start Tuesday’s game against the Mariners.