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Zack Wheeler’s Velocity Dip Prompts Phillies to Weigh Rotation Adjustments

His Aug. 10 outing after targeted therapy saw his sinker velocity drop more than two miles per hour.

Overview

  • The Phillies postponed Wheeler’s start after he reported persistent right shoulder soreness and then obtained imaging and targeted treatment before his return.
  • In his five-inning, 83-pitch outing against the Rangers, Wheeler allowed two earned runs while averaging 93.0 mph on his sinker versus a 95.5 mph season mark and showed erratic fastball command.
  • Manager Rob Thomson and Wheeler both expressed confidence that the velocity will rebound, but catcher J.T. Realmuto said inconsistent command forces constant in-game adjustments.
  • Philadelphia plans to monitor Wheeler closely during a 13-game stretch without off-days and is considering skipping his next turn or briefly moving to a six-man rotation.
  • Observers caution that lingering shoulder issues or continued velocity loss could undermine the Phillies’ postseason ambitions with Wheeler as their staff ace.