Scouting Report: Zack Phillips
Milwaukee Brewers | RP
Overall
Summary
Zack Wheeler, 35-year-old Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher, has made a strong return from major shoulder surgery (thoracic outlet surgery for blood clot near pitching shoulder) that ended his 2025 season in August. Since his season debut on April 25, 2026, Wheeler has made 5 starts with a 1.99 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, and 31.2 innings pitched. He recorded a 2-0 record with a 2.55 ERA and 0.93 WHIP over his first 4 starts. Wheeler's command and swing-and-miss ability remain elite with a 36.1% chase rate (91st percentile), 25.8% whiff rate, and 23.2% strikeout rate. His pitching run value (+6) and fastball run value (+5) are comparable to 2025 levels. Manager Don Mattingly is optimistic about Wheeler's trajectory. The primary concern is a velocity decline from 96 mph in 2025 to 94.5 mph average fastball velocity in 2026, though this is expected during recovery from extended injury layoff.
Strengths
- Strong return from major shoulder surgery
- Elite command and zone control
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