Zack Wheeler throws first bullpen since TOS surgery

Zack Wheeler completed a 21-pitch bullpen session Thursday, his first mound work since thoracic outlet decompression surgery, and Phillies manager Rob Thomson said Wheeler felt good; the team also reported minor issues for Aidan Miller, Orion Kerkering and Brandon Marsh.

Zack Wheeler threw a bullpen session on the Carpenter Complex back field, marking his first mound work since thoracic outlet decompression surgery last September. The session lasted 21 pitches and was limited to four-seam fastballs and sinkers. Phillies manager Rob Thomson reported that Wheeler felt good after the outing and that velocity and ball flight looked good. The club originally estimated a six-to-eight month recovery window but has not set a firm timetable for his return. Key details: - Wheeler completed a 21-pitch bullpen session that consisted of only four-seamers and sinkers. - Manager Rob Thomson said Wheeler "felt good" after the session and complimented his velocity and ball flight. - Wheeler underwent thoracic outlet decompression surgery in September; the team previously cited a six-to-eight month recovery window. - The Phillies said Wheeler could appear in a simulated game or a Grapefruit League outing before camp ends, and Thomson mentioned regular-season readiness is possible in about six weeks depending on recovery. - Wheeler's camp progression included throws to 90 feet, flat-ground work, then throws to 120 feet while rehabbing in Philadelphia with team medical staff. - Additional injury notes: top prospect Aidan Miller is sidelined with a sore back and not doing baseball activities; Orion Kerkering suffered a hamstring strain but is expected to return by the end of the weekend; Brandon Marsh jammed his hand, has inflammation with imaging showing no damage, and is unlikely to play until after the team's first spring-training off-day. Summary: Wheeler's successful bullpen is a clear milestone in his post-surgery recovery and opens the possibility of further ramp-up work such as a simulated game or Grapefruit League appearance, though the club has not scheduled his next bullpen. Other injuries reported at camp appear to be short-term and are being monitored by the team. Undetermined at this time.