Phillies ace Zack Wheeler expressed frustration Tuesday after not being selected for the National League All-Star roster due to a rule tied to his scheduled Sunday start. He said he would be willing to pitch in the July 14 game at Citizens Bank Park anyway.
Wheeler struck out 14 batters in seven innings during a 4-1 win over the Reds, improving to 9-1 with a 2.28 ERA. He called the omission "kind of BS" and noted that the Sunday start rule blocks his participation even though he feels ready to throw an inning.
Interim manager Don Mattingly said he would support Wheeler pitching if the pitcher feels capable. Pitching coach Caleb Cotham added that he trusts Wheeler's assessment of his own body and that guidelines could limit his workload.
Wheeler, a three-time All-Star, ranks among MLB leaders in bWAR despite missing the season's first month after surgery. Three other pitchers who start Sunday were added as replacements, but Wheeler remains eligible for a later roster spot.
