Zack Wheeler Named NL Comeback Player of the Year

Wheeler was honored at the MLB Awards after recovering from venous thoracic outlet syndrome, which ended his 2025 season. The surgery to treat the condition included removing a rib.

After a lengthy rehabilitation, he returned to the Phillies’ active roster on April 25 and made his first start that night against the Atlanta Braves. He did not miss another start during the season.

Wheeler finished with a 3.00 ERA and 193 strikeouts over 162 innings. He is the first Phillies player to receive the award since Brad Lidge in 2008.

Wheeler said the team’s effort to return to the playoffs was a rewarding part of the season, though the Phillies did not advance as far as they hoped. The players’ association had also named him its Comeback Player of the Year, based on a vote by fellow players.