The Philadelphia Phillies will see ace pitcher Zack Wheeler make his first start of the season on Saturday against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park, according to an April 21 announcement. This marks Wheeler’s return after undergoing thoracic outlet decompression surgery in September and is his first appearance since August of last year.
Wheeler’s comeback is significant for a team that has struggled with its starting rotation. The Phillies have been facing a six-game losing streak and currently hold a combined starting rotation earned run average (ERA) of 5.48, ranking near the bottom among Major League Baseball teams. As the club looks to improve its performance, Wheeler’s presence could provide much-needed stability.
Manager Rob Thomson said he expects Wheeler to be limited to under six innings and about 90 pitches during his debut. “I think he’s basically at the end of Spring Training,” Thomson said regarding Wheeler’s rehab progress. “The fastball velocity’s gone up. It’s not where it’s gonna be, I don’t believe. The command has been some days good, some days not as good. But I’m expecting on a normal day, weather-wise, that he’s gonna have his command.” Thomson also added: “He’s really spun the ball well during all of his outings, so I feel good about him.” He further stated: “Having Zack Wheeler on your 26-man roster makes you a better roster, no matter what,” and emphasized: “When he’s healthy and pitching well, he’s one of the best, if not the best pitcher in the National League.”
Wheeler began bullpen sessions in Spring Training before completing three rehab starts with Triple-A Lehigh Valley and two more with Double-A Reading as part of his recovery process following rib removal surgery related to a blood clot near his right shoulder.
While left-handed pitcher Cristopher Sánchez has shown consistency this season following strong performances last year, other starters such as Jesús Luzardo (7.94 ERA), Taijuan Walker (9.16 ERA), and Aaron Nola (5.06 ERA) have struggled early on.
The Philadelphia Phillies are recognized as charter members of Major League Baseball’s National League according to their official website. They serve both local fans in Philadelphia and broader regional audiences through games and community outreach according to their official website. The team plays home games at Citizens Bank Park—a stadium opened in 2004—under executive leadership including chief executive officer and general manager roles according to their official website. The franchise previously secured World Series championships in 1980 and 2008 according to their official website.
Looking ahead, observers will watch how Wheeler’s return affects both morale and results for a team aiming to reverse its early-season struggles.
