Imagine keeping a piece of your own rib as a memento—it’s bizarre, yet for Zack Wheeler, it’s a powerful symbol of his journey back to full health. But here’s where it gets controversial: is preserving a removed rib a quirky keepsake or a profound reminder of resilience? Let’s dive into the story.
Wheeler’s recovery from venous thoracic outlet decompression surgery has been a slow, deliberate process, and that rib in his closet? It’s not just a novelty—it’s proof of what he’s endured and the road still ahead. When pitchers and catchers reported to Clearwater this week, Wheeler faced the media with a tone that felt less like a countdown to recovery and more like a man embracing a new normal. ‘It is encouraging,’ he said of his offseason progress, ‘but there are speed bumps along the way. You take things day by day.’
The surgery itself was unusual—removing the first rib to address a rare blood clot issue. Paul Buchheit, the Phillies’ head athletic trainer, preserved the rib for Wheeler, who now keeps it in his closet. ‘It’s not just a souvenir,’ Wheeler explained. ‘It’s a reminder of what I’ve been through and what I’m still working toward.’
And this is the part most people miss: Wheeler’s absence in the final month and a half of the 2025 season, including the postseason, was a significant blow to the Phillies. Despite finishing with 96 wins, the team’s ace—who had a stellar 10-4 record and 2.71 ERA in his first 24 starts—was sidelined. The injury itself was strange, as Wheeler admitted, ‘You don’t expect something like a blood clot.’
Wheeler credited the medical teams in Washington, Philadelphia, and St. Louis for their role in his recovery. The first week post-surgery was grueling, but since then, he’s focused on rebuilding strength and range of motion. ‘It’s a grind,’ he said, ‘but it’s getting better. Slowly but surely.’
Now, Wheeler feels ‘pretty much normal,’ but normal doesn’t mean ready. He’s behind his typical spring schedule, throwing from 90 feet instead of being off the mound by now. Phillies manager Rob Thomson confirmed Wheeler won’t be ready for Opening Day, but the absence shouldn’t be long. Wheeler’s approach is practical: ‘There’s no need to rush if it risks anything.’
This delay reshuffles the Phillies’ rotation plans. Cristopher Sánchez and Jesús Luzardo will need to step up early, while Aaron Nola and Taijuan Walker aim to rebound from down seasons. Top prospect Andrew Painter will also get a shot at the fifth starter role.
Despite missing the postseason, Wheeler cherishes his introduction at Citizens Bank Park before Game 1 of the NLDS. ‘It was special,’ he said. ‘The fans here know baseball, and it meant a lot to me and my family.’
The return of J.T. Realmuto is another boost for Wheeler and the pitching staff. ‘Having him back gives us all a comfort level,’ Wheeler said. ‘He’s huge for us, especially for me.’
Interestingly, Wheeler hasn’t reached out to other pitchers who’ve dealt with thoracic outlet syndrome. ‘Everyone’s body heals differently,’ he explained. ‘I don’t want to compare my experience to someone else’s. My focus is on my own recovery.’
For now, it’s about the small wins: building strength, refining mechanics, and stacking days without setbacks. ‘Repetitive throwing is key,’ Wheeler said. ‘Making sure everything is in sync.’
Even during a cold, snowy offseason in Philadelphia, Wheeler stayed committed to his rehab. ‘It was tough, but I got to the field and did what I needed to do,’ he said.
Wheeler’s honesty and determination are clear. His return to the mound will be pivotal for a Phillies team aiming to answer their October questions. ‘We’ve been chasing a World Series for years,’ he said. ‘My goal is to get back and help us win one.’
Here’s the question for you: Do you think Wheeler’s measured approach to recovery is the right call, or should he push harder to return sooner? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
