Phillies' Zack Wheeler Struggles in Second Rehab Outing

Ace pitcher aims to return from injury as Phillies start season 4-3

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:01pm

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Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Zack Wheeler had a shaky second rehab appearance as he works to return from an injury that has kept him out of the team's first seven games of the 2026 season. The Phillies have managed a 4-3 record so far without their ace on the mound.

Why it matters

Wheeler is a crucial part of the Phillies' starting rotation and his return could provide a major boost as the team looks to build on its early-season success. However, any setbacks in his recovery could delay his return and force the Phillies to rely more heavily on their other starters.

The details

In his second rehab outing, Wheeler struggled with his command and was unable to get through his scheduled innings. The Phillies are taking a cautious approach with Wheeler's recovery to ensure he is fully healthy before rejoining the major league roster.

  • Wheeler underwent a procedure in late March that has kept him out of the Phillies' first seven games of the 2026 season.
  • Wheeler made his first rehab appearance on April 1st.

The players

Zack Wheeler

A starting pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies who is working his way back from an injury that has sidelined him to start the 2026 season.

Philadelphia Phillies

A Major League Baseball team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that currently has a 4-3 record to start the 2026 season.

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What’s next

The Phillies will continue to monitor Wheeler's progress and determine the next steps in his rehab process. If he is able to make a full recovery, his return to the starting rotation could provide a major boost to the team's playoff aspirations.

The takeaway

Wheeler's injury has forced the Phillies to rely on their depth to start the season, but his eventual return could be a game-changer if he is able to regain his All-Star form on the mound.