Philadelphia Phillies ace starter Zack Wheeler is going to be out the rest of the season following surgery to relieve a blood clot in his throwing shoulder. Wheeler was diagnosed with venous thoracic outlet syndrome after feeling a heaviness in his right arm earlier this month. Expand Tweet

The recovery time is 6 to 8 months after his surgery, and he is planning to return in the 2026 season for the Phillies. That was confirmed by Philadelphia general manager Dave Dombrowski as he met with the media Saturday. Wheeler is under contract with the Phillies through the 2027 season.

The loss of Wheeler is a major blow for the Phillies as they pursue the National League East title. They are in first place in the division and they have a 6.0-game lead over the second place New York Mets.

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