Zack Wheeler Injury Timeline Reaches Key Milestone

First bullpen session in six months for Phillies’ Zack Wheeler felt ‘natural’

Wheeler checked a box off in his return from a blood clot, but will continue to go at his own pace as he prepares to pitch again at some point during the 2026 season.

Zack Wheeler Injury Timeline Reaches Key Milestone

The Zack Wheeler injury timeline reached a milestone as the veteran eyes a return to the Philadelphia Phillies.

Phillies Notes: Wheeler's Recovery, Kerkering's Strain, Stott's Focus

Zack Wheeler has returned to throwing after thoracic outlet surgery, completing a 21-pitch bullpen session. He showcased fastballs and sinkers at 85% effort, with plans for another session soon. Managers remain cautious with his timeline for returning, as he undergoes a careful ramp-up process that could see him back in rotation by early April. Meanwhile, Orion Kerkering is advancing toward the Opening Day roster despite a hamstring strain, whil…

Phillies Notes: Wheeler, Kerkering, Stott

Zack Wheeler threw a 21-pitch bullpen on Thursday, making the first time that the Phillies ace had thrown a BP since undergoing thoracic outlet surgery in September.  Wheeler and Phils manager Rob Thomson each told reporters (including The Athletic’s Charlotte Varnes) that Wheeler threw only fastballs and sinkers at about 85 percent effort, which is normal for any pitcher’s first bullpen session following an injury layoff.  Everything went well …

Injury updates: Zack Wheeler takes huge step in rehab from TOS

Zack Wheeler (TOS) will miss Opening Day, but is making progress. (Grace Del Pizzo/Phillies Nation) Phillies Injury Updates RHP Zack Wheeler (thoracic outlet syndrome) Status: Will miss Opening Day Phillies starter Zack Wheeler underwent thoracic outlet syndrome decompression surgery in September. He has not pitched in a game since Aug. 15. His venous TOS diagnosis was announced on Aug. 23. Wheeler did not pitch in the 2025 postseason. Wheeler …