Phillies' Zack Wheeler Nears Return From Thoracic Outlet Surgery

The veteran right-hander is progressing through a rehab assignment as he recovers from a blood clot in his shoulder.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:21pm

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Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler is making progress in his recovery from thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and a subsequent blood clot found in his right shoulder. Wheeler is set to make his first rehab start at Triple-A Lehigh Valley, throwing 45 pitches over three innings. The Phillies have mapped out his next few rehab appearances as they aim to have Wheeler back on the mound by late April or early May.

Why it matters

Wheeler has been a key part of the Phillies' starting rotation since signing with the team in 2020. His return will be a major boost as the Phillies look to build on their success from last season and make another playoff push.

The details

Wheeler underwent surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome after a blood clot was discovered in his right shoulder during the 2025 season. The 35-year-old right-hander is now working his way back, with his first rehab start scheduled for today at Triple-A Lehigh Valley. He is expected to throw 45 pitches over three innings. The Phillies have also mapped out his next two rehab starts, with Wheeler set to pitch for Double-A Reading and then return to Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

  • On March 28, 2026, Wheeler will make his first rehab start at Triple-A Lehigh Valley.
  • On April 7, 2026, Wheeler is scheduled to make a rehab start for Double-A Reading.
  • On April 12, 2026, Wheeler is scheduled to make another rehab start at Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

The players

Zack Wheeler

A 35-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies who is recovering from thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and a blood clot in his right shoulder.

Cristopher Sanchez

A pitcher in the Phillies' starting rotation who made the Opening Day start in Wheeler's absence.

Jesus Luzardo

A pitcher in the Phillies' starting rotation.

Aaron Nola

A pitcher in the Phillies' starting rotation.

Taijuan Walker

A pitcher in the Phillies' starting rotation.

Andrew Painter

A pitcher in the Phillies' starting rotation.

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What they’re saying

“Zack Wheeler will throw 45 pitches in three innings today in Triple-A. His next rehab start will be Friday in Durham. The following start will come with Double-A Reading. After that, TBD.”

— Todd Zolecki, MLB.com reporter

What’s next

The Phillies will continue to monitor Wheeler's progress through his rehab assignments, with the goal of having him back in the starting rotation by late April or early May.

The takeaway

Wheeler's return from thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and a blood clot in his shoulder will be a major boost for the Phillies as they look to build on their success from last season. The team has a solid rotation in his absence, but his presence will add depth and experience to the pitching staff.