Zack Wheeler: The Ace of the Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies have been a staple of Major League Baseball for over a century, and in recent years, they've had their fair share of talented players. One of the most notable additions to their roster in recent years is starting pitcher
Zack Wheeler. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Wheeler's career, his time with the Phillies, and what makes him a key component of their rotation.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Zack Wheeler was born on May 30, 1990, in Smyrna, Georgia. He was drafted by the San Francisco Giants with the sixth overall pick in the 2009 MLB draft. Wheeler made his professional debut in 2010 and quickly rose through the ranks, earning a promotion to the major leagues in 2013 with the New York Mets. During his time with the Mets, Wheeler established himself as a talented young pitcher, known for his fastball and curveball.
Joining the Philadelphia Phillies
In December 2019, Wheeler signed a five-year, $118 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies. The move marked a new chapter in Wheeler's career, as he joined a team looking to compete for a playoff spot. Wheeler's first season with the Phillies was a resounding success, as he posted a 4-2 record with a 2.92 ERA in 11 starts.
Performance and Accolades
Wheeler's performance with the Phillies has been impressive, to say the least. In 2020, he finished with a 4-2 record and a 2.92 ERA, earning him a spot on the
National League Cy Young Award ballot. Wheeler's success can be attributed to his ability to throw a variety of pitches, including a fastball, curveball, and changeup. His fastball, in particular, has been clocked at over 97 mph, making him one of the hardest-throwing starting pitchers in the league.
What's Next for Zack Wheeler?
As the Phillies look to compete for a playoff spot in the coming seasons, Wheeler will play a crucial role in their rotation. With his talent and experience, he's poised to be the ace of the staff, leading the team to victory on a regular basis. Phillies fans can expect to see Wheeler take the mound every five days, throwing strikes and shutting down opposing lineups.
Zack Wheeler is an exceptional starting pitcher who has quickly become a fan favorite in Philadelphia. With his impressive arsenal of pitches and ability to perform under pressure, he's a key component of the Phillies' rotation. As the team looks to compete for a championship, Wheeler will be at the forefront, leading the charge. If you're a fan of the Phillies or just a baseball enthusiast, be sure to keep an eye on Wheeler as he takes the mound for the Phillies. You can catch all of Wheeler's starts and the rest of the Phillies' games on
ESPN.
With the Phillies' rich history and talented roster, they're sure to be a competitive team for years to come. And with Zack Wheeler at the helm, they've got a legitimate chance to bring a championship back to the City of Brotherly Love. So,
get your Phillies gear ready and cheer on Wheeler and the rest of the team as they take on the best of the National League.