Sources indicate that the Philadelphia Phillies have come to terms on a contract extension with Zack Wheeler, thereby avoiding the potential scenario of the star pitcher hitting free agency later this year. An official announcement from the Phillies is anticipated on Monday.
Wheeler, who is heading into the final year of his current five-year, $118 million deal, has been a standout performer for the Phillies. The team, known for investing heavily in star players like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Aaron Nola, has seen considerable success with Wheeler. There has been speculation this spring that both parties would negotiate a new agreement.
With a 3.06 ERA over his first four seasons in Philadelphia, along with an impressive Adjusted ERA+ of 137, Wheeler has amassed 675 strikeouts in 629 1/3 innings. His accomplishments include leading the league in innings pitched in 2021 and earning a Gold Glove Award last season.
From the outset of Wheeler’s tenure with the Phillies, owner John Middleton has vehemently dismissed any notion of trading the right-hander, expressing a steadfast commitment to retaining him. This ensures stability at the front end of the Phillies’ rotation, with Wheeler and Nola locked in on long-term contracts, and promising talent Ranger Suarez emerging as a formidable third starter.
Originally drafted sixth overall by the San Francisco Giants in 2009, Wheeler’s career path led him to the New York Mets after being traded for Carlos Beltran in 2011. Despite facing setbacks due to injury, including missing the 2015 and 2016 seasons due to elbow issues, Wheeler has demonstrated resilience and skill throughout his career.
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