Philadelphia Phillies sign Zack Wheeler
The Philadelphia Phillies have signed former New York Mets pitcher Zack Wheeler. The contract is for five years and worth more than 100 million dollars according to Jeff Passan. Wheeler 29, who played his whole career for the Mets now joins one of their biggest rivals in what is becoming the best division in the Major Leagues. The deal is said to be worth 118 million dollars.
Right-hander Zack Wheeler and the Philadelphia Phillies are in agreement on a five-year deal worth more than $100 million, sources tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 4, 2019
New Horse For the Phillies
Zack Wheeler pitched five seasons for the Mets. Wheeler had a career record of 44-38 with a 3.77 ERA and a 1.360 WHIP. in 749 innings pitched Wheeler has struck out 726 batters. The Mets acquired Wheeler from the San Francisco Giants in exchange for their now newly named manager Carlos Beltran. Wheeler was expected to form a key cog in the Mets dominant starting rotation along with two time Cy Young winner Jacob deGrom, Matt Harvey and Noah Syndergaard.
He missed the entire 2015 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. in 2016 Wheeler was expected back but another injury cut his comeback short. Wheeler would not pitch in the majors until 2017. The injuries prevented Wheeler from pitching in the Mets back to back playoff seasons.
In 2017 Wheeler again suffered a season-ending injury only making 17 starts. But the last two seasons Wheeler has remained healthy enough to make 60 starts and winning 23 games. Wheeler who made over five million dollars this past season now will see a huge jump in salary. Although the terms are still undisclosed, Wheeler looks to make in the 20 million a year range.
Phillies Outlook
The Phillies improved their starting rotation and hurt a division rival all in one fell swoop. However, the Mets did not seem to have any interest in re-signing Wheeler. Wheeler joins a starting rotation of Jake Arrieta, Aaron Nola, Zach Eflin, and Vince Velasquez.
This makes the second straight offseason where the Phillies are making big free-agent signings. Last offseason Bryce Harper was the big pony the Phillies lured to the city of Brotherly Love. This year it is Wheeler–so far. The Phillies reportedly have their eyes set on a reunion of new manager Joe Girardi and shortstop Didi Gregorius. There are reports that current shortstop Jean Segura has no issues moving to another position.
The 2019 season that had so much promise in Philadelphia ended in despair. The 81-81 record cost manager Gabe Kapler his job. It also meant the Phillies spending spree would continue into this offseason. Wheeler is just the start. The Phillies are hoping there is more to come.
