Zack Wheeler, the ace pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, is set to return to the mound on Saturday against the Atlanta Braves after being sidelined since August due to a blood clot near his right shoulder that required thoracic outlet surgery. Manager Rob Thomson announced Wheeler's return, noting that he completed a five-game minor league rehab stint, during which he pitched for both Double-A Reading and Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Thomson expressed confidence in Wheeler's ability, stating he expects him to pitch approximately six innings and around 90 pitches, indicating that Wheeler is effectively at the end of spring training. Wheeler's presence is anticipated to enhance the struggling Phillies, who are currently on a six-game losing streak, with a record of 8-14. A three-time All-Star, Wheeler last pitched on August 15, 2025, and finished the previous season with a record of 10-5 and a 2.71 ERA across 149.2 innings.