The Philadelphia Phillies are in a race against time to get Zack Wheeler back on the mound as soon as possible. With the 2026 season fast approaching, the team's success hinges on the return of their star pitcher. But here's where it gets controversial: while the Phillies may have the arms to survive an extended absence, the health and performance of Aaron Nola are in question.
As MLB.com's Theo DeRosa points out, Wheeler's importance to the Phils' rotation is amplified by the uncertainty surrounding Nola's health and ability to return to pre-2025 levels. DeRosa shares healthy optimism about what a healthy and effective Wheeler means to Rob Thomson and Co., but the loss of lefty Ranger Suarez to the Red Sox in free agency is a blow to the team.
"Wheeler has been one of the best starters in the Majors since signing with the team prior to 2020, and the club also lost lefty Ranger Suárez to the Red Sox in free agency this offseason," DeRosa writes. "Throw in a poor, injury-plagued 2025 for Aaron Nola, and the Phillies rotation needs Wheeler back as soon as he’s healthy."
The Athletic's Matt Gelb reports a return date that'll more likely be closer to opening day than the six-to-eight month trajectory that Dave Dombrowski shared immediately following Wheeler's injury. "I think there's been a lot of optimism among the Phillies about how he's progressed... I think it's going to be closer to April 1 than to June 1," Gelb reported on MLB Network back in late January.
But the real controversy lies in the fact that Aaron Nola will be pitching for Italy in the World Baseball Classic. Had Wheeler not been injured, we would've seen him pitch for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. Now, Nola will get the chance to play in front of an American crowd at Daikin Park in Houston.
"Nola can show that he's knocked off some rust in the high-stakes international games, or he can make the organization regret giving him clearance to play," we read.
So, will the Phillies be able to get Wheeler back on the mound in time for the 2026 season? And will Nola's performance for Italy make the organization regret their decision? It's a question that has the baseball world on the edge of their seats, and one that could have a significant impact on the Phillies' chances of success this season. Will you agree or disagree with the Phillies' decision in the comments?
