Zack Wheeler wouldn't be ready for Opening Day; Cristopher Sánchez aims to open for the Philadelphia

Philadelphia.– Phillies' rotation ace Zack Wheeler would not be in condition to open the regular season, as confirmed by manager Rob Thomson, while the pitcher continues his recovery process after decompression surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome performed on September 23rd.

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Although from the beginning his presence on Opening Day was considered unlikely, it was the first time the manager practically ruled out that possibility. "He's progressing well; I don't think he'll be ready for Opening Day, but it won't be long after that," Thomson said. The estimated recovery time for this type of procedure ranges from six to eight months, which places his possible return between the end of March and the end of May. Wheeler already had a pitching session last weekend and, according to the coaching staff, responded positively. The organization maintains the expectation that the right-hander can rejoin closer to the start of that projected window. However, the club has no intention of accelerating his process, considering his importance in the rotation and his experience as the Opening Day starter in the last two campaigns.

Sanchez takes the lead in the rotation

In the absence of Wheeler, Cristopher Sánchez emerges as the main candidate to start on March 26, when Philadelphia hosts the Texas Rangers at Citizens Bank Park. Sánchez, who finished second in the National League Cy Young Award voting, would lead a rotation that would also feature Jesús Luzardo, Aaron Nola, Taijuan Walker, and promising prospect Andrew Painter. The Phillies are relying on the depth of their pitching staff as they await the return of their ace from the mound.