Zack Wheeler Behind Schedule for Spring Training Due to Shoulder

Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler (shoulder) will start spring training behind other starters, though not significantly. He underwent surgery in mid-August for a blood clot near his right shoulder, followed by venous thoracic outlet syndrome surgery in late September. Wheeler began a throwing program in early December and long-tossed from 90 feet last week. While an Opening Day return isn't ruled out, an IL stint is likely. Venous TOS is considered the less severe of the two TOS diagnoses, but his pre-surgery form isn't guaranteed.