Wheeler Claims NL Comeback Honor: Phillies Ace Tops MLBPA Ballot
The 36-year-old right-hander defeated Marlins and Braves pitchers in the Players Choice Awards, following a season where he recovered from thoracic outlet syndrome.
By Giulia Marshall ·
Zack Wheeler has secured the National League Comeback Player of the Year award in the MLB Players Association's annual Players Choice Awards. The Phillies ace won the vote from his peers on Wednesday, outpacing Marlins pitcher Sandy Alcantara and Braves right-hander Martín Pérez.
Wheeler's return to the mound followed a 2025 season that ended abruptly in mid-August. He discovered a blood clot near his right shoulder, a condition caused by a vein compressed between his collarbone and rib cage. This diagnosis led to thoracic outlet syndrome, a medical issue that has ended the careers of several professional pitchers.
The recovery process required two surgical procedures. Wheeler first had the blood clot removed, followed by a second operation to remove a rib and relieve pressure on the vein. His rehabilitation included physical therapy and a strict diet, a challenge for a pitcher known for enjoying fast food. He arrived at spring training weighing approximately 195 pounds, which was about 10 pounds less than his normal weight.
Despite initial concerns about diminished velocity during a minor-league stint, Wheeler regained his command quickly. He threw a 95-mph fastball for the first pitch of his season opener on April 25 against the Atlanta Braves. He did not miss another start for the remainder of the year. In 28 appearances, the 36-year-old recorded a 14-5 record, a 3.00 earned run average, and 193 strikeouts over 162 innings.
Wheeler maintained a 2.13 ERA through his first 15 starts but was not selected for the All-Star team because he pitched in the Phillies' final game before the break. After a six-start slump in August, he closed the season with a 4-0 record and a 1.67 ERA in his last six outings. In the season finale, he held the Tampa Bay Rays to one run over six innings, helping the Phillies secure the final National League wild card spot.
Reflecting on his recovery in September, Wheeler said he expected to thrive after the surgery. “To be expected,” he said. “When you have surgery, or anything along those lines, you just have to stay positive and keep a strong mindset, you know? You believe that you’re going to come back and be the same guy, if not better, because you’ve had more time to strengthen and fine-tune everything.”
The highest-paid pitcher in baseball has one year remaining on his three-year, $126 million extension. He previously suggested 2027 could be his final season. However, he described his future plans as currently undecided. “Honestly, I mean, it’s just still up in the air,” Wheeler stated. “I think a lot of things have to kind of play out for me just to be able to see.”
Wheeler is also a candidate for the league-wide Comeback of the Year award. That honor will be decided by the 30 MLB.com club beat reporters. The winner will be announced on Nov. 11 at the league's annual awards show in Las Vegas.
