One hundred and eighteen million dollars seemed like a lot for a pitcher getting paid based off of projections and not past performance, but the Phillies’ big bet in December 2019 has paid off tremendously. Wheeler has pitched to a 3.06 ERA over his first four seasons in Philadelphia and is the anchor to one of the better starting rotations in the sport. He has a 2.42 ERA across 63 1/3 postseason innings for the Phillies.
Wheeler, once unproven, is now a Phillies postseason legend and one of the best starting pitchers in baseball. When the time comes, he will be one of a handful of current Phillies inducted onto the team’s Wall of Fame.
With 2024 being the final season of the five-year deal, the Phillies have interest in extending Wheeler, who will be entering his age 34 season.
Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports that the Phillies have discussed an extension with Wheeler’s camp, but “no offer has been made, but one is expected at some point.”
President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski spoke about the team’s interest in retaining Wheeler following the Aaron Nola press conference last week.
“We’d like to keep him in the organization for a lengthy period of time,” Dombrowski said. “But it’s not always easy. It’s something that I’m sure we’ll pursue at some point. I’m not sure, at this point, how important it is for them.”
Wheeler, assuming he remains healthy in 2024, will likely sign another contract that exceeds $100 million.
