Philadelphia Phillies star pitcher Zack Wheeler will not pitch on Sunday as planned, using the upcoming All-Star break to recover from ongoing back problems.
Wheeler, a two-time NL All-Star, exited his last game against the Dodgers early due to back spasms. The 34-year-old right-hander revealed he has been dealing with this issue for several weeks. An MRI showed no serious damage, but Wheeler remains sore.
Manager Rob Thomson stated they are taking precautions with Wheeler and will reevaluate his schedule after the break.
Wheeler’s impressive season includes a 10-4 record and a 2.70 ERA in 19 starts for the Phillies, who currently lead the majors.
“He won’t be pitching in the All-Star Game since he was slated for Sunday,” Thomson explained. There’s no decision yet on whether Wheeler will attend the All-Star events in Texas.
For Sunday’s game against Oakland, Thomson hinted it might be a bullpen effort depending on how Friday and Saturday’s games unfold, aiming to manage their pitchers effectively heading into the break.
