Phillies ace Zack Wheeler set for Saturday debut in return from rib removal, thoracic outlet surgery

Zack Wheeler was a Cy Young candidate when his 2025 season was cut short in August due to a blood clot near his right shoulder.

Now, eight months later and one rib down, Wheeler is slated to make his return to the mound. The Phillies announced Tuesday that Wheeler is scheduled to make his 2026 debut in a start on Saturday against the first-place Atlanta Braves.

Wheeler has made five rehab starts since undergoing and recovering from thoracic outlet surgery in September. Phillies manager Rob Thomson likened Wheeler’s status as though he were at the end of spring training. Thomson told reporters Tuesday that he expects Wheeler to be limited to six innings and 90 pitches against the Braves.

“The fastball velocity’s gone up. It’s not where it’s gonna be, I don’t believe,” Thomson said, per MLB.com. “The command has been some days good, some days not as good. But I’m expecting on a normal day, weather-wise, that he’s gonna have his command.

“He’s really spun the ball well during all of his outings, so I feel good about him.”

Doctors discovered a blood clot near Wheeler’s shoulder, and he underwent a thrombolysis procedure to have it removed on Aug. 18. He was then diagnosed with venous thoracic outlet syndrome and underwent season-ending thoracic outlet surgery in September.

What is thoracic outlet syndrome?

Per the Mayo Clinic, thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when nerves or blood vessels in the thoracic outlet (the area between the neck and shoulder) become compressed. This can cause shoulder and neck pain and numbness in the fingers. In the case of venous or arterial thoracic outlet syndrome, it can also cause a blood clot, which Wheeler experienced.

Wheeler had the top rib on his right side removed during his surgery to relieve pressure on the area. He was in good spirits about his recovery in spring training and even laughed about keeping the rib as a memento in his house.

Now he’s ready to return to the mound for an 8-14 Phillies team that needs a boost.

Wheeler, 35, made his third career All-Star team last season and was in the midst of a standout campaign before it ended early. In 149 2/3 innings pitched, Wheeler posted a 2.71 ERA and 0.935 WHIP with 195 strikeouts and 33 walks for a Phillies team that went on to win the NL East.

The Phillies are off to a slow start in their quest for a third straight division title and are certainly hoping Wheeler can help get them back on track.