Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler had to exit the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers due to tightness in his lower back. The right-handed ace left the game after pitching five innings on a hot night in Philadelphia. Despite leaving with a comfortable 9-1 lead for the Phillies, Wheeler’s early departure was a concern for the team.
During his five innings of work, Wheeler threw 76 pitches, allowing three hits while striking out seven and walking two batters. His only blemish was a solo home run given up to Cavan Biggio of the Dodgers in the fifth inning. Wheeler, who had an impressive 9-4 record with a 2.74 ERA, was scheduled to start for the Phillies over the weekend but will now be sidelined due to his back issue.
Unfortunately, this means Wheeler will not be able to participate in the upcoming All-Star game, as he was set to be a part of the National League staff. The Phillies, who lead the majors with seven All-Star selections, will miss Wheeler’s presence on the mound during the midsummer classic.
Despite the early exit, Wheeler was on track to secure his 10th win of the season, which would have made him the third Phillies pitcher with double-digit wins before the All-Star break. This achievement would have been a historic first for the franchise, joining Aaron Nola and Ranger Suárez in the elite group.
In March of this year, Wheeler and the Phillies reached a lucrative agreement on a $126 million, three-year contract extension that would keep him in Philadelphia until 2027. This deal, with an average annual salary of $42 million, ranks as one of the highest in baseball history, showcasing the team’s commitment to their star pitcher.
As Phillies fans await updates on Wheeler’s condition and his expected return to the rotation, they can take solace in the fact that their team boasts a strong roster with multiple All-Star selections. The remainder of the season will be crucial for Philadelphia as they aim to maintain their position atop the standings and make a push for the postseason.
Stay tuned for more updates on Zack Wheeler’s recovery and the Phillies’ quest for success in the second half of the season. Follow your favorite players and teams on FOX Sports to receive the latest news and insights delivered straight to your inbox.