Zack Wheeler could return to the Philadelphia Phillies rotation not too long after Opening Day.
It would be a miracle if Zack Wheeler were somehow ready to pitch for the Philadelphia Phillies on Opening Day, following a major shoulder injury that cut his 2025 season short.
However, it doesn't seem like it could be too much longer after the first game of the season that the Phillies could get back their ace.
Wheeler made a big step forward in his rehab on Thursday, throwing his first live bullpen session of the year. The key to this workout, though, was how the 35-year-old's body would respond the next day.
"I didn't know how to feel yesterday, or know what I was gonna feel like yesterday, but it felt good, felt smooth, natural, mobile," said Wheeler on Friday, the day after the workout.
Now that he and the team know the bullpen session went well, they can focus on what's next: setting up a timeline to get back to action.
After this, Rob Thomson gave an encouraging update on the starter's status. Philadelphia's skipper said Wheeler will be on a six-week ramp-up to game action, which could put him back in the early-to-mid April range.
The Phillies skipper also noted that Wheeler is “shooting for the regular buildup," meaning he'll throw another bullpen session on Sunday.
Thomson continued that it's not surprising that Wheeler is already at this point in his recovery.
"He's worked awfully hard, and that's the key to it. So, since he's put in the hard work, it's not really [surprising]. He's worked harder than he's ever worked in the offseason, so, it's a really good sign. He's strong; shoulder is stronger than it ever," said the Phillies skipper.
Of course, a lot can happen between now and then, and the Phillies need to be cautious about rushing Wheeler back too soon. As great as it would be to make starts in April and May, Philadelphia needs him way more for the end of September and into October.
But, for now, knowing that Wheeler is progressing well in his rehab should give the Phillies about
Phillies Roundtable also offers a fan community and message board. We’d love to have you join us to talk all things Phillies. Click the “Join” button at the top of the page to join our community for free.