The Philadelphia Phillies’ 2025 campaign fell short of expectations, ending with yet another premature playoff exit. Philadelphia was not at full strength down the stretch, as ace Zack Wheeler missed the final two months of the season.
In August, Wheeler underwent surgery to remove a blood clot associated with thoracic outlet syndrome, followed by a recommended thoracic outlet decompression procedure. The medical setback halted what had been shaping up as one of the most well rounded seasons of his 11 year career.
Before landing on the sidelines, the 35 year old right hander made 24 starts and recorded a 2.71 ERA, a 0.935 WHIP, and 195 strikeouts over 149 and two thirds innings. His dominance played a major role in keeping the Phillies atop the National League East standings.
As Philadelphia looks to convert its regular season success, including consecutive NL East titles, into a deeper postseason run, pressure continues to mount. The championship window for the current core is narrowing, and the roster is already expected to look different heading into next year.
Help for the pitching staff, however, could arrive sooner than expected in the form of Wheeler’s return.
The typical recovery timeline from Wheeler’s surgery is six to eight months, and manager Rob Thomson shared Monday that the veteran has been progressing well under the supervision of the team’s medical staff. According to Ty Daubert of Phillies Nation, Wheeler is already throwing from a distance of 75 feet. If that progression continues, there is a realistic possibility he could be ready by Opening Day.
That news is a positive sign for a Phillies team that continues to count on Wheeler as the anchor of its rotation. Since joining the club six years ago, he has consistently met expectations as a true frontline starter.
Over that span, Wheeler has compiled a 2.91 ERA and a 69 and 37 record in 157 starts, earning three All Star selections and four top ten finishes in National League Cy Young Award voting. He has also established himself as a dependable postseason performer, often elevating his game in October, though a World Series title has remained elusive.
That goal carries added importance, as Wheeler has said he plans to retire once his current contract expires. For the Phillies, his return would not only stabilize the rotation but also represent a critical opportunity to capitalize on their remaining championship window with their ace still leading the way.
