Former MLB player and analyst Trevor Plouffe expressed optimism about the Philadelphia Phillies’ chances to contend for the 2025 World Series despite their loss of ace pitcher Zack Wheeler. Wheeler was placed on the 15-day injured list on Saturday after being diagnosed with a blood clot near his right shoulder, raising concerns about the team’s rotation moving forward. Plouffe reaffirmed the belief that the Phillies, led by Bryce Harper, still have a path to success even without their star pitcher for an uncertain period.
Trevor Plouffe on the Impact of Zack Wheeler’s Injury
Trevor Plouffe, who ended his MLB career with the Phillies in 2018 before Harper joined the team, acknowledged the seriousness of Wheeler’s condition but maintained hope for the Phillies’ playoff prospects. During the Monday episode of Baseball Today, Plouffe highlighted both Wheeler’s impressive performance this season and the team’s ability to adapt despite the setback.
“It’s not over, Chris,” Plouffe replied (Timestamp 12:21). “It’s not over, but that’s probably the biggest hit that they can take not having him in the rotation. You’re right. We have to see, you know, how long he’s going to be out, what they can do for a blood clot, because it is very serious. I think we have to always mention that. Like, we’re just rooting for him to be okay.”
—Trevor Plouffe, MLB Analyst and Former Phillies Player
The 36-year-old emphasized Wheeler’s standout season statistics and stressed that other pitchers on the roster could fill the void. Christopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, and Ranger Suarez are among the names Plouffe identified as key options the Phillies can rely on for strong pitching contributions in Wheeler’s absence.
“Obviously, we want to see him pitch,” Plouffe said. “You’re seeing the stats on the board right now if you’re on YouTube, and he’s had a phenomenal year. Do I think it’s over? No. Like, you still can run out Christopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, and Ranger Suarez, and then somebody else.”
—Trevor Plouffe, MLB Analyst and Former Phillies Player
While Plouffe expressed doubts about Andrew Painter, the Phillies’ top prospect, stepping up immediately due to his challenges in the minor leagues, he ultimately remained confident in the team’s ability to remain competitive without Wheeler. This viewpoint centers on the depth of the Phillies’ pitching rotation and their offensive firepower spearheaded by Bryce Harper.
Contrasting Viewpoint from MLB Insider Chris Rose on the Phillies’ Outlook
In contrast to Plouffe’s measured optimism, MLB insider and Baseball Today co-host Chris Rose took a more pessimistic stance about the Phillies’ chances without Wheeler. Rose described the ace as irreplaceable, particularly in the high-stakes environment of the postseason, and expressed doubt that the team can achieve its World Series goals without him.
“If he’s (Zack Wheeler) not available, it is over,” Rose said (Timestamp 13:49). “It is over because of what he does in October. Yeah, Trev, last year they lost a game in which he pitched seven innings and gave up one hit. One freaking hit. He was incredible. Somehow they lost the game, and that was demoralizing for them.”
—Chris Rose, MLB Insider and Broadcaster
Rose highlighted Wheeler’s exceptional postseason track record, noting an earned run average (ERA) just above 2.00 over 11 playoff starts, along with the rare ability to pitch deep into games—averaging nearly seven innings—demonstrating his critical role in the Phillies’ October runs. According to Rose, losing Wheeler compromises the team’s chances drastically, given how integral he has been in securing playoff victories.
What Losing Zack Wheeler Means for the Phillies’ Future
Zack Wheeler’s injury casts uncertainty over the Phillies’ pitching strength just as the 2025 season unfolds, yet the team’s depth and Bryce Harper’s leadership offer some consolation. Plouffe’s confidence in the existing rotation depth and offensive lineup suggests the Phillies can navigate through Wheeler’s absence, but Rose’s perspective underscores the difficulty of overcoming such a significant loss during the playoff stretch.
As the Phillies work to manage Wheeler’s recovery and adjust their roster, the 2025 World Series ambitions remain in a delicate balance. The impact of this injury could redefine the team’s strategic approach and force emerging pitchers to prove their readiness on a prominent stage. Ultimately, the resilience of the Phillies and the performance of Bryce Harper will determine how far the team advances without their ace on the mound.