The Phillies were dealt a massive blow to their third-ranked starter’s ERA. Fox Sports reports on the surgery Zack Wheeler underwent to remove a blood clot in his right arm. What does this mean for the likely NL East champions?
Wheeler continued to prove one of the best in MLB this season. The ace leaves with a 2.71 ERA, giving him a sub-three average in five of the last six seasons. While still a deep and dangerous team, there’s no doubt the bats are feeling more pressure. How much more is expected of them after losing one of the two elite, top-of-the-rotation guys on the Phillies’ roster?
Losing Wheeler in Philadelphia is like losing a favorite lollipop in the candy store – just go pick out something else. MLB reports Jesus Luzardo and Christopher Sanchez in the current top-three spots on the depth chart. This may make the decision-making process easier. Ranger Suarez is outperforming Luzardo, and they no longer need to decide between the two. While neither is the calibre of talent they lost, the team has more than capable replacements.
Caprini Risk Score reports that blood clots typically take 3-6 months of recovery, including a monitored period on blood thinners. In the big picture, it’s incredible to find it before it causes more damage. On the other hand, sports fanatics rarely care to think any bigger than the World Series in front of them. The writing is on the wall for Wheeler’s 2025 campaign.
Delaware Online reports on comments from teammates. Despite being expected to go on a playoff run, it’s refreshing to see them also worried about the big picture. For example, relief pitcher Matt Strahm said, “His family comes first. That’s what we’re worried about mostly.” They are there for Wheeler and confident in the next man up. While the words are expected in sports, they have the tools and depth to back them up.
Caprini Risk Score reports that two out of three people have recurring issues. The concern goes from missing the season to being forced into retirement. There’s no denying his health is of the utmost importance, or that baseball is better with him in it.
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