Phillies Ace Zack Wheeler‘s Season Ends with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Diagnosis
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Philadelphia – A notable blow has struck the Philadelphia Phillies’ playoff hopes as right-handed pitcher Zack Wheeler will undergo surgery to address thoracic outlet syndrome, effectively ending his 2024 season. The announcement, made Saturday by the team, casts a shadow over their pursuit of a National League East title.
Diagnosis and Recovery timeline
Wheeler, 34, was initially diagnosed with a blood clot in his upper right arm and underwent a procedure to remove it. Though, a subsequent second opinion revealed the underlying cause: thoracic outlet syndrome. This condition arises when nerves and blood vessels in the space between the collarbone and the first rib are compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and diminished circulation. The surgery, scheduled for the coming weeks, is expected to sideline Wheeler for six to eight months, potentially impacting his readiness for the start of the 2025 season.
“It’s disappointing, but everybody knows it’s out of our control,” saeid Phillies manager Rob Thomson.
“we’re happy he’s going to be healthy, because it’s a very serious thing that he went through.”
The initial discovery of the issue stemmed from Wheeler reporting a feeling of “heaviness” in his shoulder following his August 15th start against the Washington Nationals. Team doctors with the Nationals identified the clot, prompting further investigation by the Phillies’ medical staff.
A Cy Young Caliber Loss
Wheeler’s absence is a significant loss for the Phillies. He finished the season with a 10-5 record, a stellar 2.71 ERA, and a league-leading 195 strikeouts across 149 ⅔ innings pitched. He was a leading contender for the National League Cy Young Award, having previously finished as the runner-up in both 2021 and 2024. His consistent performance and ability to dominate opposing hitters will be sorely missed.
Phillies head athletic trainer Paul Buchheit clarified that Wheeler’s current condition is unrelated to previous shoulder soreness he experienced earlier in the season. Buchheit anticipates Wheeler could begin a throwing program approximately eight weeks post-surgery, though a precise recovery schedule remains uncertain.
With Wheeler out, the Phillies will rely on a combination of established starters and potential call-ups to fill the rotation. Aaron Nola,Taijuan Walker,Cristopher Sánchez,Ranger Suárez,and Jesús Luzardo are expected to shoulder increased obligation. The team may also consider bringing up top pitching prospect Andrew Painter,who is still working his way back to full strength after undergoing Tommy John surgery.
“It’s never good to lose a Zack Wheeler, your No. 1 pitcher,” acknowledged Phillies President of Baseball Operations dave Dombrowski.
“You’re never going to replace an individual like that. But we have a good ballclub, and we’ll be looking for other people to step up and pick up the slack.”
Despite the setback, the Phillies’ clubhouse appears resilient. Manager Thomson reported no noticeable drop in morale. “They’re baseball players,”
he said. “They just kind of move on. We’ve got a game today. They’re not going to cancel it.”
Disclaimer: This article provides details about a medical condition and a professional athlete’s injury.It is indeed not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
