Phillies Ace Zack Wheeler Nears Return from Injury

Wheeler to throw live BP as he progresses in recovery from September surgery

Mar. 12, 2026 at 10:06pm

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The Philadelphia Phillies have received an encouraging update on the recovery of star pitcher Zack Wheeler, who is nearing a return to the mound after undergoing thoracic outlet decompression surgery last September. Wheeler is set to throw his first live batting practice session on Saturday, a key milestone in his rehabilitation process that could put him on track to rejoin the Phillies' rotation in the early weeks of the 2026 season.

Why it matters

Wheeler's return is pivotal for the Phillies, as he is the ace of their pitching staff and a key piece in the team's postseason aspirations. His ability to control opposing lineups is crucial to the Phillies' success, and his recovery timeline will shape the early-season rotation plans and competitiveness of the club.

The details

The Phillies have been carefully monitoring Wheeler's progress as he advances through his rehabilitation work in Florida. Cristopher Sanchez is currently projected to start on Opening Day, but the organization believes Wheeler may not fall too far behind the original six-to-eight-month recovery timeline if his progress continues smoothly. The live BP session on Saturday marks an important milestone, as Wheeler transitions from bullpen sessions to facing hitters, a critical step before returning to game action.

  • Wheeler underwent thoracic outlet decompression surgery in September 2025.
  • The Phillies previously outlined a six-to-eight-month recovery window for Wheeler following the surgery.
  • Wheeler is set to throw his first live BP session on Saturday, March 16, 2026.

The players

Zack Wheeler

A 35-year-old right-handed pitcher and the ace of the Philadelphia Phillies' pitching staff.

Cristopher Sanchez

A Phillies pitcher who is currently projected to start on Opening Day in Wheeler's absence.

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What they’re saying

“Zack Wheeler will throw his first live BP on Saturday.”

— Todd Zolecki, MLB.com reporter (MLB.com)

What’s next

The Phillies will continue to closely monitor Wheeler's progress as he advances through his rehabilitation. If his recovery continues smoothly, he could potentially rejoin the Phillies' rotation in the early weeks of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Phillies' ability to weather Wheeler's absence and have him return to full strength early in the season will be crucial to the team's postseason aspirations. This update on Wheeler's recovery timeline provides encouraging news for the Phillies as they look to build on their success and make a deep playoff run in 2026.