Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler struck out a career-high 14 batters over seven innings to lead his team to a 4-1 victory against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.
The right-handed ace allowed just four hits and one run on 104 pitches during the contest.
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Kyle Schwarber provided offensive support by hitting a 3-0 pitch for his 31st home run of the season in his return to his home state of Ohio.
The performance followed Wheeler being left off the All-Star roster for the 96th Midsummer Classic at Citizens Bank Park despite carrying a 2.36 ERA through his first 13 starts.
Wheeler had previously returned on April 25 from a serious thoracic outlet surgery following a blood clot injury sustained in August 2025.
"I kind of had those expectations when I get hurt," said Wheeler. "I'm gonna be the same guy or even better."
The pitcher expressed frustration regarding his omission from the All-Star game due to his regular pitching rotation schedule making him unavailable for the exhibition matchup.
"I felt like that was kind of a reminder," said Wheeler, with a smirk, "for whoever needs to be reminded."
The selection process drew scrutiny as alternate options like Paul Skenes made the initial roster despite having a significantly higher earned run average at the time.
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"It pisses me off," said Wheeler. "I feel like I've earned it."
