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Phillies Hold NL East Amid Wheeler's Recovery Progress

2/20/2026

47 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Philadelphia Phillies aim to hold their National League East position until Zack Wheeler, the Phillies ace, returns from shoulder surgery.
Cristopher Sánchez and Jesús Luzardo will lead the rotation in Zack Wheeler's absence.
Matt Gelb reports Wheeler is making progress, having thrown from 120 feet with no issues.
A return by late April or early May is realistic if he remains strong, with Andrew Painter awaiting rotation support.

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Story summary

The Philadelphia Phillies aim to hold their National League East position until Zack Wheeler, the Phillies ace, returns from shoulder surgery.
Cristopher Sánchez and Jesús Luzardo will lead the rotation in Zack Wheeler's absence.
Matt Gelb reports Wheeler is making progress, having thrown from 120 feet with no issues.
A return by late April or early May is realistic if he remains strong, with Andrew Painter awaiting rotation support.