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2w ago

Phillies Set Zack Wheeler’s Return for Saturday at Braves

Philadelphia is counting on him to steady a rotation with one of MLB’s worst ERAs.

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Jul 21, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler (45) gets anew baseball after allowing a home run to Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran (16) during the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Manager Rob Thomson confirmed Tuesday that Wheeler will make his first start since Aug. 15 on Saturday in Atlanta.
  • Thomson expects roughly six innings or 90 pitches for the debut, a careful ramp after rib-removal surgery to treat thoracic outlet syndrome that compressed a vein near his shoulder.
  • Wheeler finished a five-start rehab with a 5.85 ERA over 20 innings and 23 strikeouts, with reports noting fastball velocity that ranged from about 92 mph to touches of 95 and uneven command.
  • The weekend plan reported by The Athletic’s Charlotte Varnes has Andrew Painter on Friday, Wheeler on Saturday, and Aaron Nola on Sunday at Truist Park.
  • The start comes as the Phillies try to halt a six-game slide at 8-14, with starters carrying a 5.48 ERA, and team leaders viewing Wheeler’s return as a timely boost.