Zack Wheeler Plans to Retire After 2027 Season

PHILADELPHIA, PA – Zack Wheeler, the ace of the Philadelphia Phillies, has announced plans to retire after the 2027 season. The right-hander signed a three-year, $126 million extension in March 2024, covering the 2025 to 2027 seasons. Wheeler, 35, cited a desire to spend more time with his family as a key reason for his retirement timeline.

Despite his decision, teammates, including catcher J.T. Realmuto, have doubts that Wheeler will actually retire if he remains healthy and continues to pitch at a high level. “I can’t imagine him dominating for two more years and hanging them up. He loves it,” Realmuto said. Wheeler echoed a sense of resolve, stating, “It’ll be easy to walk away,” indicating that his family is a priority.

Since joining the Phillies in 2020, Wheeler has excelled, boasting a 2.93 ERA and 65 wins over six seasons. This year, he is performing exceptionally well with a 2.85 ERA and a 6% walk rate. His performance has often placed him among the candidates for the National League Cy Young Award, finishing second in voting in both 2021 and 2024.

Wheeler’s career began when he was drafted sixth overall by the San Francisco Giants in 2009, though he never pitched for the team before being traded to the New York Mets. His time with the Mets was marred by injuries, but since then, he has emerged as one of the league’s most reliable pitchers, accumulating a 3.31 career ERA.

Despite signing lucrative contracts, including a notable five-year, $118 million deal with the Phillies, Wheeler seems unfazed by the prospect of financial gain if he were to continue playing. “Doesn’t matter. No,” he said when asked if his performance might change his retirement plans. This kind of commitment to family and future is a rare find in the competitive world of professional sports.

As Wheeler looks toward his future, the Phillies are preparing for life after him as well, considering the potential of younger pitchers within their ranks. Though the star pitcher may be nearing the end of his career, his record and impact on the game have left a significant mark.