Massive Boost: Phillies’ Rotation Set For Major Boost With Zack Wheeler Return Update.

With Zack Wheeler perhaps making a comeback this week, the Philadelphia Phillies will soon see significant rotation reinforcement.

In his fifth and probably final rehab start on Sunday, the right-hander fired 77 pitches over four innings. Wheeler, who started for the Double-A Reading Fightin Phils, gave up four earned runs on six hits and a walk while striking out four. Wheeler informed reporters that he feels prepared to return to the major league squad even if his fastball’s velocity may not be what he prefers.

“It’s not there at the moment, and I’m a high 90s, mid 90s man. You kind of have to pitch a little bit more when that happens,” Wheeler said. “You have to move the ball about, hit your places, and trick folks a little bit more than simply rearing back and throwing. If that is still down when I return, I believe that will likely be the largest modification. As I previously stated, I’m hoping that this warmer weather will enable me to at least somewhat return to my previous level and possibly reach it throughout the season.

In September, Wheeler had thoracic outlet surgery. The Phillies are pushing for Wheeler’s return, and it was reported before to Sunday’s game that this would be his final rehab start. Later this week, when the Phillies play the Atlanta Braves, the return is expected.

Zack Wheeler’s return is desperately needed by the Phillies rotation.
With a 5.55 ERA in their first 19 games, the Phillies rotation has struggled. Taijuan Walker has had difficulties, but neither Cristopher Sanchez not even Jesús Luzardo and Andrew Painter are to blame.

Walker has allowed at least three earned runs in his previous three starts, with the exception of the start against the Arizona Diamondbacks, in which he allowed two earned runs in five innings. His most recent start was a nightmare against the Braves. He allowed seven runs on seven hits and three walks in four innings.

Walker appears to be the player who will be replaced by Zack Wheeler, who will soon enter the rotation. In this case, Walker might be able to rejoin the rotation in the event of an injury.