Overview
- At spring training, Wheeler said he stores the surgically removed first rib in a case in his home closet after his surgeon hand-delivered it.
- Phillies head athletic trainer Paul Buchheit preserved the bone so it would not decay, according to Wheeler.
- Wheeler is throwing from a maximum of 90 feet four times a week with a plan to extend to 105 feet before flat‑ground work and a return to the mound.
- Manager Rob Thomson said he is unlikely for Opening Day but should not be far behind, and team president Dave Dombrowski expects an early‑season return.
- Wheeler’s 2025 season ended in August after a clot treated by thrombolysis preceded September decompression surgery; he had a 2.71 ERA with 195 strikeouts in 149.2 innings before the diagnosis.