Mets shutting down resurgent Wheeler for rest of season

The New York Mets are shutting down right-hander Zack Wheeler for the rest of 2018.

Nearing a career high in innings pitched (182 2/3) after his latest outing, Mets manager Mickey Callaway said Wheeler's spike in workload is a big reason for the shutdown, according to Tim Britton of The Athletic.

"I think we're making the right choice here," Callaway said.

The last time Wheeler exceeded 100 innings was in 2014 when he tossed 185 1/3 over 32 starts. After undergoing Tommy John surgery before the 2015 season, he missed two full years before making 17 starts in 2017.

His return to a near full slate of work has gone exceptionally well, and he's been one of the Mets' brightest spots in a bumpy season. He went 12-7 with a 3.31 ERA and 8.84 K/9 this year. His second half was remarkable, though, going 9-1 with a 1.68 ERA.

Still, he agrees with the decision and doesn't want to take any chances.

"It's just being smart," Wheeler said.