Phillies' Zack Wheeler on IL Due to Blood Clot

Philadelphia Phillies v Washington Nationals

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Philadelphia Phillies' ace pitcher Zack Wheeler has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a blood clot in his right arm. The 35-year-old, who pitched five innings against the Washington Nationals on Friday (August 15), reported feeling "heaviness" in his shoulder after the game. Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski confirmed the diagnosis of a "right upper extremity blood clot" and stated that Wheeler will undergo further testing upon returning to Philadelphia.

Wheeler's condition has left the team without a timeline for his return, causing concern among fans and teammates. The pitcher has been a key player for the Phillies, boasting a 2.71 ERA and leading Major League Baseball with 195 strikeouts this season. His absence comes as the Phillies hold a 70-53 record and a 5.5-game lead in the National League Central race.

Blood clots in athletes can arise from various causes, including thoracic outlet syndrome, which is common in overhead athletes like baseball pitchers. Treatment options vary, potentially involving blood thinners, thrombolysis, or even surgery. Past cases, such as those of former Mets pitcher Matt Harvey and Rangers executive Chris Young, demonstrate that athletes can successfully return to their pre-injury performance levels with proper treatment.

The Phillies are adjusting their rotation in Wheeler's absence, with Aaron Nola set to return from his own injury and Taijuan Walker stepping in for Wheeler. Manager Rob Thomson mentioned the possibility of promoting top prospect Andrew Painter if the team opts for a six-man rotation.

Wheeler, in the first year of a three-year extension with the Phillies, hopes to recover soon and return to the mound. Meanwhile, his teammates and fans are focused on his health and well-being, as Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber expressed: "Baseball is baseball. When it comes to someone’s health like that, we need him healthy first."


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