Phillies' Zack Wheeler Takes Next Step in Rehab from Surgery

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Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler toed the rubber on a mound for the first time in more than six months, throwing 21 pitches as he continues his recovery from thoracic outlet decompression surgery to remove a blood clot. Manager Rob Thomson said the "velo was good, the ball flight was good" and Wheeler felt great after the session, though the team will monitor how he feels going forward as they determine the next steps in his rehab process.

Why it matters

Wheeler's successful return to the mound is a crucial step in his recovery and a positive sign for the Phillies, who are counting on the ace right-hander to anchor their starting rotation when healthy. The team has been cautious with Wheeler's rehab, given the uniqueness of his injury, but this milestone outing suggests he is progressing well.

The details

Wheeler had been working his way back through long toss sessions extending up to 120 feet. The Phillies identified Thursday as a potential date for his first bullpen session and decided to have him take that next step when he arrived feeling good that morning. Thomson said Wheeler's velocity and ball movement looked good during the 21-pitch session, though he declined to share the specific radar readings.

• On September 23, 2025, Wheeler underwent thoracic outlet decompression surgery to remove a blood clot.
• On February 26, 2026, Wheeler threw 21 pitches off a mound for the first time in over six months.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Phillies will monitor how Wheeler feels on Friday and then determine the next steps in his rehab process, including when he may be able to progress to facing live batters and potentially pitching in major league games.