US EditionPhillies ace Zack Wheeler returns strong in 2026 debut vs Braves after surgery
Wheeler struck out six and threw 56 strikes in 84 pitches as Philadelphia said he returned after thoracic outlet decompression surgery.
- On Saturday, Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Zack Wheeler made his season debut against the Atlanta Braves in Atlanta, allowing two runs across five innings while striking out six and throwing 84 pitches.
- Wheeler returned to the mound following thoracic outlet decompression surgery in 2025, having completed five minor league rehab starts before Saturday's appearance.
- Velocity proved no issue for Wheeler, who exceeded 95 mph 11 times in his opening inning and struck out Ronald Acua twice with a 96.5 mph fastball and an 82.8 mph sweeper.
- Wheeler departed holding a 3-2 lead after throwing 56 strikes in 84 pitches, with Phillies manager Rob Thomson pulling him for reliever Tanner Banks to protect the narrow advantage.
- Thomson expressed confidence in Wheeler's ability to remain effective, saying "if he's anywhere in that range, he'll be fine," expecting the pitcher's strength to continue building back up.
21 Articles
21 Articles
Zack Wheeler officially joins Phillies roster; reliever begins minor-league rehab assignment
Zack Wheeler is back. (Zac BonDurant/Icon Sportswire) Zack Wheeler is officially back. Out since last August after he suffered a blood clot and later underwent surgery to correct thoracic outlet syndrome, Wheeler was reinstated off the 15-day injured list on Saturday, the Phillies announced. He’ll start against the Braves on Saturday night at Truist Park. The Phillies, losers of 10 straight, could use a vintage Wheeler performance. But in five m…
Phillies Reinstate Zack Wheeler From 15-Day Injured List
Zack Wheeler is officially back on the Phillies’ roster, as the team announced that the right-hander has been reinstated from the 15-day injured list in time to start tonight’s game against the Braves. Righty Alex McFarlane was optioned to Triple-A to create space on the 26-man roster. The three-time All-Star last appeared in a big league game on August 15, as his 2025 season was unexpectedly brought to an early end after Wheeler posted a 2.71 …
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