Zack Wheeler (TOS) recorded nine strikeouts and allowed three runs over 5 2/3 innings on Tuesday in a minor league rehab start for Double-A Reading.
There’s no publicly available Statcast data below Triple-A, but The Athletic’s Matt Gelb reports Wheeler was sitting 94 mph and touched 95 in his first inning of work. The 35-year-old former fantasy ace’s diminished velocity has been a concern throughout his rehab assignment as he works his way back from last year’s thoracic outlet syndrome procedure, but it appears the Phillies are ready to bring him back to the majors soon. He’s expected to make a final rehab start at Double-A Reading on Sunday. His extensive track record suggests he can still be an impactful fantasy contributor, though it remains unclear whether he’ll return to his previous level of performance.