Zack Wheeler threw 21 fastballs in his first bullpen since venous thoracic outlet surgery and felt strong, raising the realistic possibility of a return in roughly six weeks. Betting angle: if bullpen outings and live bats go well, expect early-season Phillies pitching lines and Wheeler props to shorten—punters should wait for a simulated game or minor-league outing before backing Wheeler-specific bets or rotation-related season markets.
Wheeler’s First Bullpen Since Surgery Signals Progress
CLEARWATER, Fla. — Zack Wheeler completed his first bullpen session Thursday morning following venous thoracic outlet surgery on Sept. 23 that included removal of a rib. The Phillies' ace threw 21 pitches, all fastballs, and reported feeling great afterward.
Bullpen Session Details
Wheeler's velocity and ball flight looked encouraging, and the immediate reaction from the club was positive. The team plans to monitor how he feels over the next 24–48 hours and map out the next steps in his recovery.
What the Club Is Saying
The Phillies called the session the start of his recovery timeline. Management described Wheeler as having worked harder than ever in the offseason, with a noticeably stronger shoulder. Club officials cautioned that this injury is different from many common setbacks, so exact timing remains fluid.
Recovery Timeline and Ramp-Up Plan
The standard spring ramp-up for pitchers can be roughly six weeks from the start of bullpen work, and the team said Wheeler could possibly be ready to pitch in a major-league game in about that span. Even if he doesn't appear in Grapefruit League games, the club can check off progression via live batting practice, simulated games and controlled minor-league outings away from the main complex.
Immediate Next Steps
Wheeler typically would have two days off after a bullpen session, which places his next pen tentatively this weekend unless soreness or setbacks arise. The club emphasized cautious, stepwise progression rather than rushing.
Impact on Phillies’ Rotation and Spring Schedule
So far in Grapefruit League action the only projected Opening Day rotation member to pitch is Taijuan Walker, who threw two innings Thursday before departing for the World Baseball Classic. Aaron Nola is also slated for WBC duty. Cristopher Sanchez will start in Dunedin before joining the Dominican Republic for pool play on March 6. Top prospect Andrew Painter is scheduled to make his first spring start Sunday against the Yankees, making that day a critical point in camp.
Depth and Scheduling Notes
Wheeler’s return timetable affects how the Phillies manage innings early in spring and whether they mix simulated outings with low-profile minor-league starts to protect his recovery while building readiness.
Betting Outlook and Market Implications
Wheeler’s encouraging bullpen shortens uncertainty around the Phillies’ top-of-rotation depth if progression continues.
For bettors, that means:
- Early-season moneylines and run lines could tighten in games where Wheeler or a healthier rotation member is expected to start.
- Wheeler-specific props (innings, strikeouts) should be treated cautiously until he records live-game innings or a simulated appearance.
- Consider waiting for his first minor-league or Grapefruit League outing before placing season-long rotation-dependent bets, but monitor markets—odds may move quickly on positive updates.
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Short-term wagers on Phillies pitching performance may become more attractive if the club confirms controlled game action without setbacks, but patience is advised until Wheeler faces live hitters in game conditions.
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