Philadelphia Phillies ace pitcher Zack Wheeler has been placed on the 15-day injured list following a blood clot diagnosis in his shoulder, according to the team. The decision was announced Saturday, with no specific timeline given for Wheeler’s return. The three-time MLB All-Star has started 24 games this season, maintaining a solid 2.71 ERA, and was a strong contender for the National League Cy Young Award in 2024.
Wheeler’s injury comes at a critical juncture for the Phillies, who are still in the race for the NL East title. His absence will require adjustments in the rotation, particularly with the team also preparing to reintroduce Aaron Nola, who is set to return from a three-month injury layoff. Nola, 32, has been sidelined by a rib stress fracture and an ankle sprain but is now scheduled to pitch in a rehab start on Sunday.
The Phillies, currently holding a five-game lead over the New York Mets in the NL East, face a challenging week ahead as they navigate this setback. Wheeler’s placement on the injured list underscores the unpredictable nature of professional sports, where even the most seasoned players can face unexpected health challenges.