Over the weekend, the Philadelphia Phillies announced several roster changes, highlighted by the activation of ace Zack Wheeler as the team tries to steady itself during a rough patch.
Wheeler was brought back from the 15-day injured list after finishing a rehab stint with Double-A Reading. The right-hander is set to rejoin the rotation and will take the mound against the Atlanta Braves, offering a critical lift to a pitching staff that has been underperforming.
To open a spot on the roster, the club sent right-hander Alex McFarlane back to Double-A Reading following his recent time with the Phillies. This move directly coincides with Wheeler’s return and represents a necessary tweak to the pitching group.
Additionally, Philadelphia revealed that right-hander Jonathan Bowlan will start a rehab assignment with Triple-A Lehigh Valley as he recovers from a right groin strain. His progress could add bullpen depth in the near future.
The team confirmed these transactions on X, formerly known as Twitter, outlining the series of moves ahead of Saturday’s game.
“The Phillies have returned RHP Zack Wheeler from his rehab assignment with Reading (AA) and reinstated him from the 15-day IL. To make room for Wheeler on the 26-man roster, RHP Alex McFarlane was optioned to Reading following last night’s game. Additionally, right-handed pitcher Jonathan Bowlan will begin a rehab assignment tonight with Lehigh Valley.”
Wheeler’s comeback is especially significant for Philadelphia, which heads into Game 2 of a three-game set against the Braves with an 8–18 record and a 10-game losing streak. The rotation has struggled to find its footing early in the 2026 MLB season.
The Phillies are counting on the 12-year veteran to provide an immediate stabilizing presence. During his rehab assignment, Wheeler threw 20 innings, showing solid strikeout numbers despite occasional inconsistency. The team plans to carefully manage his workload in his first start back.
Philadelphia will also need improved run support and cleaner defense to complement Wheeler’s return as it tries to snap its skid and build back some early-season momentum.
