Zack Wheeler is already looking ahead to 2026 after his season was abruptly ended by thoracic outlet syndrome.
The Philadelphia Phillies shared a solemn update on social media Sunday, announcing that Wheeler will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2025 season, while also expressing gratitude for the continued support from fans.
“Thank you for all the support this season. It means the world to me and my family,” the 35-year-old Wheeler wrote on Instagram. “As many as you know, I’ll be having surgery in the coming weeks, which means I’ll miss the rest of the 2025 season. It’s tough news, but I’m so grateful for all the love and well-wishes I’ve already received.”
The Phillies announced on Saturday that Wheeler will undergo thoracic outlet decompression surgery in the next few weeks and is expected to be sidelined for six to eight months.
Added Wheeler: “I’m locked in on the work ahead and can’t wait to be back in 2026, ready to give everything I’ve got for this team and this city. Thanks for riding with us through it all.”
What is the Nature of Zack Wheeler’s Injury?
Wheeler made his last start on September 15 against the Washington Nationals, giving up two runs over five innings in a 6-2 victory. After the game, he reported a feeling of “heaviness” in his right shoulder. Further testing revealed a blood clot in his right upper extremity, which led to the three-time All-Star being placed on the 15-day injured list.
He underwent a successful procedure to remove the clot on September 18, after which doctors recommended thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) surgery.
Though TOS is uncommon, several MLB pitchers—such as Matt Harvey, Chris Carpenter, Chris Young, and Tyson Ross—have been diagnosed with the condition. Unfortunately, most have struggled to return to their previous performance levels after the surgery.
How Will Zack Wheeler’s Absence Affect the Phillies?
Losing a pitcher of Wheeler’s caliber is a major setback for the Phillies. As a top-of-the-rotation arm known for elevating his game in the postseason, his absence will be deeply felt.
Wheeler has been a postseason standout, posting a 4-3 record with a 2.18 ERA and 77 strikeouts over 12 playoff appearances. He also holds the best WHIP (0.97) in postseason history among pitchers with at least 50 innings pitched.
Before the injury, Wheeler had positioned himself as a strong Cy Young contender. He was 10-5 with a 2.71 ERA across 149.2 innings, and his 195 strikeouts led the National League, ranking third in all of MLB behind Boston’s Garrett Crochet (207) and Detroit’s Tarik Skubal (200).
Despite the loss, the Phillies remain in control of the NL East. With Sunday’s 3-2 win over Washington, they improved to 76-54 and hold a seven-game lead atop the division.
“It’s tough to lose him, especially his caliber and this part of the season,” pitcher Aaron Nola said, via MLB.com. “It’s tough for the team and the city and the organization, but we’re going to do our best to pick him up and go win as many baseball games as possible.”
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