Zack Wheeler is part of the Phillies' returning core, providing stability in the starting rotation as the team looks to rebound from their recent postseason exit. His performance will be crucial as Philadelphia aims to maintain its competitive edge in the NL East, especially with key players from rival teams returning from injuries.

A stronger bullpen, bolstered by Romano's signing, should enhance the chances for Zack Wheeler and the rest of the Phillies' rotation to secure more victories. This improved support could lead to increased win totals and potentially bolster Wheeler's fantasy value as well.

Wheeler, who received a substantial contract extension before the season, emerged as one of the top pitchers in MLB during his age-34 campaign, showcasing elite performance that nearly earned him the Cy Young award, falling just short to Chris Sale.

Wheeler's performance in the 2021 season, where he finished as a Cy Young contender, sparked debate about the value of bulk innings versus effectiveness, as he logged significantly more innings than Burnes. Since then, he has consistently been among the leaders in innings pitched, highlighting the importance of durability in an era where starting pitchers often don't go deep into games.

Zack Wheeler was recognized for his outstanding performance in the 2024 season, earning the National League Cy Young award. He finished as the runner-up to Chris Sale in the voting, highlighting his elite status among pitchers. Wheeler's success contributed to the competitive landscape of the league, where he was one of the standout performers alongside other top pitchers like Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes.