Phillies' Wheeler unlikely to be ready for season opener

Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler is on his way back in his recovery from surgery and complications from a blood clot.

Manager Rob Thomson said Wheeler has been throwing from 90 feet.

"He's doing well," Thomson said. "I don't think he'll be ready for Opening Day, but it's not going to be too far behind that."

With Wheeler continuing his rehab, Andrew Painter has an enhanced opportunity to earn a spot in the team's rotation at the start of the season.

The 22-year-old right-hander, one of Philadelphia's top prospects, went 5-8 with a 5.26 ERA in 26 starts in the minors last year in his return from Tommy John surgery in July 2023.

"I saw him today for the first time. He looks in really good shape," Dombrowski said.